Augusta ME

Augusta, ME – Nestled along the Kennebec River, Augusta offers a peaceful charm with a rich New England history. As the capital of Maine, this small yet vibrant city blends scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and a welcoming community. Whether you're exploring colonial architecture, enjoying the fall foliage, or visiting one of its many local parks, Augusta is a place where history meets hometown warmth.

• Population: ~18,800
• Weather: Cold, snowy winters and mild summers (15–80°F); colorful autumns and crisp springs.
• Places To Visit: Maine State House, Old Fort Western, Viles Arboretum, Augusta Civic Center, Cushnoc Brewing Co.
• Top Activities: Walking along the Kennebec River Rail Trail, kayaking on nearby lakes, leaf-peeping in the fall, visiting local museums and historic sites.
• Famous Food: Fresh Maine lobster rolls, Whoopie pies, wild blueberry pie, and locally brewed craft beers.

Augusta, Maine, the state capital, plays a central role in government, health care, and education. Its economy is supported by public administration, a growing health services sector, and regional commerce. With a small-town atmosphere and strong community ties, Augusta offers stable career opportunities across several key fields.

Top 5 Jobs in Augusta, ME

Augusta, ME might be a small city, but it offers several great spots where students can unwind, have fun, and take a break from their hectic schedules. Whether you love nature, history, or fun social settings, Augusta has something to make your day brighter.

Old Fort Western – Step back in time and explore this historic fort, which is the oldest surviving wooden fort in New England. It's a great place to learn, enjoy history, and take a leisurely walk while enjoying the scenic Kennebec River views.

Viles Arboretum – Offering over 200 acres of forests, fields, and trails, the arboretum is perfect for students who love the outdoors. You can go for a walk, have a picnic, or get inspired by its beautiful settings for some creative writing.

Kennebec River Rail Trail – Whether you're into jogging, biking, or just a peaceful walk alongside the river, this 6.5-mile trail connects several communities and is a great way to clear your mind and stay active.

Capitol Park – Just across from the Maine State House, this park is ideal for relaxing on a sunny day. It's a nice spot to read a book, play frisbee with friends, or just lie on the grass and soak in the surrounding beauty.

Cushnoc Brewing Co. – While primarily a brewery, this local spot offers a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu. Gather with friends for a fun night out, enjoy some live music, and taste some local artisan pizza.

Augusta Civic Center – Check out the events schedule at the Civic Center, where you can attend concerts, fairs, and other college-friendly events that offer great entertainment options all year round.

These spots offer a rich mix of history, nature, and fun, making Augusta an enjoyable place for students to chill and explore. Whether you're looking to meet friends, discover new interests, or simply relax, you'll find just what you need in this charming city.

Augusta, Maine is a city rich in history, natural beauty, and educational opportunities. As the state capital, Augusta offers access to well-regarded institutions that prepare students for careers in public service, healthcare, business, and the liberal arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Augusta

University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) – UMA is the third-largest public university in Maine, offering more than 40 academic programs. It is known for its strengths in aviation, information technology, public administration, and healthcare. The campus supports traditional and adult learners with flexible learning options.

Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) – Located nearby in Fairfield, KVCC serves the Augusta area with high-quality, affordable education. The college offers associate degrees and certificate programs in nursing, renewable energy, business, and trades.

University of Maine (Orono) – Augusta Extension Center – Through its Augusta center, the University of Maine provides local access to courses in business, education, and social sciences. This allows students in the capital region to earn their degrees without relocating.

Central Maine Community College (CMCC) – Augusta Outreach Location – CMCC offers selected courses and training programs in Augusta through outreach efforts. The college is known for offering hands-on, career-focused programs in areas like information technology, criminal justice, and allied health.

University of Southern Maine (USM) – Augusta Distance Education – The USM system provides flexible learning for Augusta students, especially those pursuing degrees in nursing, education, and business. This option is ideal for working adults seeking a public university experience close to home.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Augusta

Purdue University Global – Augusta Campus – Formerly Kaplan University, Purdue Global offers online and campus-based programs in healthcare, criminal justice, business, and legal studies. It is designed with adult learners and career advancement in mind.

Northeast Technical Institute (NTI) – Augusta Campus – NTI is a private technical school offering short-term training programs in medical assisting, HVAC, and information technology. It is perfect for students seeking fast entry into the workforce.

Thomas College – Located in nearby Waterville, Thomas College is a private business and liberal arts college serving the Augusta area. It is known for its strong programs in business, criminal justice, and education, along with a focus on career readiness.

University of New England (UNE) – Distance and Blended Learning for Augusta Residents – UNE, based in Biddeford and Portland, Maine, offers online and hybrid degrees in fields like social work, public health, and nursing. These programs are accessible to Augusta residents seeking a private university experience.

Colby College – Also in nearby Waterville, Colby is a top-ranked private liberal arts college with a national reputation for academic excellence. Students from Augusta often attend Colby to study in fields like environmental science, economics, and international studies.

Augusta, Maine, may be small in size, but it’s home to high schools that provide a strong education for students preparing for college, careers, and beyond. The city and surrounding areas offer a mix of public and private options that focus on academic success, character building, and real-world skills.

Top Public High Schools in Augusta, ME

• Cony High School, Augusta – Known for its student-focused approach, Cony High offers Advanced Placement courses, career prep programs, and strong athletic involvement.
• Gardiner Area High School, Gardiner – Just outside Augusta, this school is praised for its committed teachers, college-readiness programs, and arts opportunities.
• Winthrop High School, Winthrop – A small public school with a close-knit community environment, offering a strong academic curriculum and leadership-focused extracurriculars.
• Hall-Dale High School, Farmingdale – A regional high school with a strong reputation for academic achievement, student engagement, and a vibrant performing arts scene.
• Maranacook Community High School, Readfield – Known for personalized learning, this school provides a balance of college-prep academics and hands-on learning opportunities.

Top Private High Schools in Augusta, ME

• Kents Hill School, Kents Hill – A well-established private boarding and day school offering a global curriculum, strong college support services, and a focus on leadership and wellness.
• Temple Academy, Waterville – A Christian school offering a high-quality education in a faith-based environment. Students enjoy a tight-knit community and solid academic foundation.
• Erskine Academy, South China – Though independent, Erskine serves several nearby towns and is known for its excellent faculty, AP course options, and community commitment.
• Saint Dominic Academy, Auburn – A Catholic school that blends spiritual life with strong academics, including advanced courses and college prep resources.
• Spruce Mountain High School – North Campus, Jay – Although part of the public system, this campus operates with a strong sense of community and offers private-school-like support services and tech-centered learning.

Augusta, Maine, the capital city of the Pine Tree State, is known more for its beautiful natural landscapes and rich history than for major professional sports. While Augusta does not host any professional teams from the big four leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL), sports culture is still very much alive in the area through minor league teams and regional fan support for nearby professional franchises.

🏒 Hockey – Maine Mariners (ECHL)

• Maine Mariners – Based in nearby Portland, about an hour south of Augusta, the Mariners play in the ECHL, a mid-level professional ice hockey league. Established in 2018, the Mariners are an affiliate of the Boston Bruins (NHL) and Providence Bruins (AHL). The team has gained a loyal following in southern Maine and contributes greatly to the regional hockey scene.

⚾ Baseball – Portland Sea Dogs (Double-A Affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)

• Portland Sea Dogs – Another team located in Portland, the Sea Dogs play in the Eastern League as the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox (MLB). Since 1994, the Sea Dogs have developed many future MLB stars and offer an affordable and family-friendly baseball experience for residents of Augusta and beyond.

🏀 Basketball – Maine Celtics (NBA G League)

• Maine Celtics – Formerly known as the Maine Red Claws, the team was rebranded as the Maine Celtics to reflect their close connection to the Boston Celtics of the NBA. Based in Portland, the team competes in the NBA G League and serves as a training ground for rising basketball talent.

🏈 Football – No Professional Teams in Augusta

• Augusta does not currently have a professional football team. However, Maine football fans often follow the New England Patriots (NFL) based in nearby Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Patriots have a large fan base throughout New England, including Augusta.

⚽ Soccer – No Top-Level Professional Soccer Teams

• Although there are no Major League Soccer (MLS) teams in Maine, local and amateur soccer leagues are popular in the region. Fans typically support the New England Revolution (MLS), who play in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and represent the greater New England region.

While Augusta, Maine, may not host major league sports teams, its proximity to larger New England cities provides fans with plenty of opportunities to experience professional sports. Combined with active minor league and college sports scenes, the capital of Maine still has plenty of sports excitement for its residents.

Augusta, Maine may be the capital of the Pine Tree State, but it's also a charming city packed with fun facts. From rich history to natural beauty, Augusta has something for everyone. Here are some fascinating facts you might not know about this unique city:

1. Maine’s Capital Since 1832 – Augusta became the official capital of Maine in 1832, moving from Portland due to its central location.
2. Small But Mighty – With just under 20,000 residents, Augusta is one of the smallest state capitals by population in the U.S.
3. The Kennebec River Runs Through It – The Kennebec River flows right through downtown Augusta, offering scenic views and outdoor fun like kayaking and fishing.
4. A Fort With History – Old Fort Western, built in 1754, is the oldest wooden fort in the United States and still stands today as a museum.
5. Birthplace of Samantha Smith – Augusta was home to Samantha Smith, the 10-year-old girl who wrote to the Soviet leader during the Cold War and became a peace activist.
6. Home of the Maine State Museum – Augusta houses the Maine State Museum, one of the oldest state-funded museums in the U.S., showcasing the state’s natural and cultural history.
7. Nature Lover’s Dream – The city is surrounded by woods, rivers, and trails. The Kennebec River Rail Trail runs from Augusta to Gardiner and is a favorite for walkers and bikers.
8. Capitol Dome View – The golden dome of the Maine State House stands out as a local landmark. Visitors can take tours to learn about Maine’s legislative process.
9. Thriving Arts Scene – Augusta boasts public art, galleries, and live performances. The Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center in nearby Gardiner adds to its cultural appeal.
10. Moose Sightings Possible – It’s not unusual to spot a moose near Augusta, especially along rural roads and wooded areas. Keep your camera ready!