Seniors Head Northeast to Augusta, Maine

Augusta, located in the Kennebec Valley, was first explored by the Popham Colony in 1607, but not inhabited until 1629, when English settlers from the Plymouth Colony established a trading post. The settlement then was known as “Cushnoc”, an Indian name, meaning “sacred place.”

Augusta became the capital of Maine in 1827. Today its role as the seat of state government is augmented by its shipping, manufacturing and publishing trades.

The many waters of the State of Maine are exhilarating, restorative and invigorating. There’s no better place to explore them than the Kennebec Valley Region in and around Augusta, where you’ll will find every type of inland water adventure imaginable.

Senior visitors who arrive in the Valley will enter a vivid landscape of river towns, lakes, mountains and vast forests. This vacation offers a blend of outdoor adventure, culture, scenic splendor, dining and the story of America’s first frontier.

 Small State Capitol Offers Much To Senior Visitors

Main points of interest in and around Augusta include Blaine House, the Governor’s home, Children’s Discovery Museum, Fort Western, the Maine State Museum, and Capital Park. There is an awesome Botanical Garden on 20 acres of land directly in front of the State House.

Augusta has many attractions and one of the most distinguished is the State Capitol Building, designed by the famous architect Charles Bulfinch. The 180-foot dome of the State House, constructed of Maine granite, is one of the most distinguishing architectural features of the capital city.

You can learn more about Maine and Augusta at The Maine State Museum, which is adjacent to the State House. Did you know that Augusta is the third-smallest state capital after Montpelier, Vermont and Pierre, South Dakota?

Seniors Enjoy Beautiful, Natural Environment

There is much for senior travelers to see and do both in and around Augusta. Many lakes and streams, the great Kennebec River, and beautiful forested hills offer a unique natural environment.

Pine Tree Arboretum has over 200 labeled species of trees, shrubs and “Space Trees” (from seed that traveled on the Space Shuttle) on display at this 224-acre garden.

There are opportunities for bird-watching, picnicking, hiking on beautiful wooded trails, biking, and cross-country skiing. The University of Maine at Augusta is the third largest school in Maine’s public university system.

 Senior golfers, note that Augusta is home to some of the best golf courses in the state of Maine.  For live entertainment, Gaslight Theater in the closeby village of Hallowell is another fun attraction to take in.

Many senior visitors head out to Old Fort Western. Built in 1754, it is a National Historic Landmark and America’s oldest surviving wooden fort, a reminder of the great contest between cultures that dominated New England life 250 years ago.

Swing by Augusta and enjoy. jeb