Lewiston ME

Lewiston, ME – Nestled in the heart of Maine, Lewiston is a charming mix of New England tradition and modern community spirit. From historic mills to scenic river trails, this city blends a rich Franco-American heritage with a growing arts and food scene. Whether you're exploring the banks of the Androscoggin River or enjoying one of many local festivals, Lewiston offers a warm and welcoming small-town feel with big-city access.

• Population: ~37,000
• Weather: Cold, snowy winters (10-35°F); mild, pleasant summers (60-80°F).
• Places To Visit: Bates College Museum of Art, Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary, Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Lewiston-Auburn Riverwalk.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the Androscoggin, attending the Great Falls Balloon Festival, sampling local brews, visiting art galleries, exploring nearby hiking trails.
• Famous Food: Poutine from local diners, fresh Maine seafood, whoopie pies, and Franco-American pastries from heritage bakeries.

Lewiston, Maine is known for its strong healthcare sector, growing education services, and a rich manufacturing history. As the second-largest city in the state, it provides stable and rewarding job opportunities for professionals across multiple industries.

Top 5 Jobs in Lewiston, ME

Lewiston, ME might not be the biggest city, but it has some fantastic spots where students can kick back, enjoy, and unwind. Whether you're into art, coffee, or a bit of outdoor fun, Lewiston has something for everyone.

Bates College Museum of Art – Located on the Bates College campus, this museum offers a diverse range of exhibitions that are perfect for any art enthusiast looking to get inspired or just take a break from studies.

Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary – Ideal for nature lovers, this sanctuary offers peaceful trails and a chance to spot various bird species. It's a great place for a relaxing walk or a picnic with friends.

Geiger Elementary Park – A great spot for students looking to enjoy some outdoor activities. Whether you’re into sports, having a casual stroll, or simply lounging in the sun, this park has plenty of space to chill out and have fun.

Quiet City Books – This quirky little bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for bookworms or anyone looking to grab a good coffee and relax amidst books and unique gift items.

Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul – Even if you're not religious, this historic architectural beauty is worth a visit for its peaceful ambiance and stunning interiors, offering a little escape from the hectic academic life.

Forage Market – Known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, this market is the perfect spot to grab a delicious bagel, sip on some house-roasted coffee, and enjoy laid-back vibes with friends.

Lewiston, Maine, is a historic city known for its vibrant arts scene, cultural diversity, and strong educational institutions. It is home to both public and private colleges that contribute to the academic and economic vitality of Central Maine.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Lewiston

Central Maine Community College (CMCC) – Located just outside Lewiston in Auburn, CMCC is a premier public two-year college offering associate degrees in healthcare, business, information technology, and skilled trades. It provides affordable education with strong job placement support.

University of Southern Maine – Lewiston-Auburn College (USM LAC) – This regional campus of the University of Southern Maine provides bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in nursing, social work, business, and the arts. It is known for its community-centered learning and flexible class options.

Adult Education Lewiston – Operated in partnership with local public schools, this public institution offers continuing education courses, GED preparation, and workforce development programs, helping adults boost their career potential.

Maine College and Career Access Programs – These state-funded services in Lewiston support adult learners with college readiness, especially for those entering technical schools or community colleges like CMCC or USM.

Lewiston Regional Technical Center (LRTC) – Though primarily serving high school students, LRTC is a publicly funded vocational institution where students can earn college credits in business, healthcare, and technical subjects, providing a head start on higher education or skilled careers.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Lewiston

Bates College – A nationally ranked liberal arts college located in the heart of Lewiston, Bates is known for its strong programs in political science, biology, economics, and environmental studies. The college has a commitment to social justice and sustainability, offering a rigorous academic environment with a close-knit community.

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (access programs in Lewiston) – Though its main campus is in Standish, St. Joseph’s offers various online and outreach programs in Lewiston. A private Catholic institution, it provides degrees in nursing, business, and education with a focus on service and leadership.

Kaplan University (now Purdue University Global – formerly offered courses in Southern Maine region) – While the physical campus in Lewiston closed, the institution previously provided private undergraduate and graduate degrees in criminal justice, healthcare, and business administration. Its legacy continues through online learning offerings by Purdue Global.

The University of Maine School of Law (satellite programs regionally in Lewiston) – Although headquartered in Portland, the state’s only law school has offered special legal clinics and outreach programs in Lewiston through partnerships with local organizations, giving access to legal education and services in the community.

Sophia Learning (online courses accepted by local private colleges) – Sophia partners with institutions like Bates and St. Joseph’s College, offering affordable, self-paced online courses that Lewiston students can use to satisfy general education credits at local private colleges.

Lewiston, ME offers several quality high schools that focus on academic excellence and student success. These schools support learners through strong academics, extracurriculars, and college-preparation programs, helping students shape bright futures.

Top Public High Schools in Lewiston, ME

• Lewiston High School – As the main public high school in the city, Lewiston High offers a wide range of college prep, vocational training, and AP courses. The school supports a diverse student body and emphasizes career-readiness.
• Edward Little High School, Auburn – Located just across the river from Lewiston, this school delivers comprehensive academic and athletic programs. Many Lewiston families consider Edward Little a strong public alternative.
• Leavitt Area High School, Turner – Serving nearby towns, Leavitt offers an engaging curriculum, strong technical programs, and dedicated career pathways.
• Lisbon High School, Lisbon Falls – This smaller high school offers a close-knit learning environment with a strong focus on both academics and student well-being.
• Oak Hill High School, Wales – Welcoming students from nearby communities, Oak Hill is known for its supportive staff, high graduation rates, and strong extracurricular offerings.

Top Private High Schools in Lewiston, ME

• Saint Dominic Academy – This Catholic private school offers a values-based education with strong academics, college preparatory courses, and a well-rounded arts and sports curriculum.
• Wayfinder Schools, Auburn – Serving students who seek an alternative path, Wayfinder provides a relationship-based model focused on real-world skills, community partnerships, and individualized learning.
• Pine Tree Academy, Freeport – Though a bit outside Lewiston, this Christian school is a top choice for families looking for small class sizes, spiritual development, and academic excellence.
• Gould Academy, Bethel – Located about an hour away, Gould is a boarding and day school that many in the region respect for its college prep programs, outdoor education, and global learning opportunities.
• Hebron Academy, Hebron – Just a short drive from Lewiston, Hebron is a private boarding and day school offering rigorous academics and personalized college guidance, drawing both local and international students.

Lewiston, Maine, while not home to any major league professional sports teams, offers a passionate sports culture rooted in minor league, collegiate, and semi-professional athletics. The city is a hub for competitive events and has a strong local support for hockey, soccer, and basketball.

🏒 Hockey – Lewiston Maineiacs (Former QMJHL)

• Lewiston Maineiacs – The Maineiacs were a major junior ice hockey team that played in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) from 2003 to 2011. They played their home games at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée, a historic local arena. In 2007, the Maineiacs captured the President’s Cup, becoming the only American team to win the QMJHL title. Though the team was disbanded in 2011, their legacy remains strong in the community.

⚽ Soccer – Semi-professional and Youth Programs

• Lewiston Youth Soccer Association – Soccer is widely loved in Lewiston, thanks in part to the town’s vibrant immigrant communities. Youth programs thrive here, fostering future talent and uniting cultures through sport. Lewiston High School's soccer team has gained national notice for its success and diversity.
• GPS Portland Phoenix (formerly) – While not based in Lewiston, this semi-professional team played games across Maine and featured players from the area. They competed in the USL League Two and represented the upper-level semi-pro soccer network in the region.

🏀 Basketball – College and Local Leagues

• Bates College Bobcats – Located in Lewiston, Bates College is a prestigious liberal arts institution with a proud athletic tradition. The men’s and women’s basketball teams compete in NCAA Division III and are part of the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). The program is known for producing talented student-athletes and exciting campus rivalries.

⚾ Baseball – Local and Collegiate Amateurs

• Legion and Amateur Leagues – Baseball is a summer staple in Lewiston. Local recreational and American Legion baseball leagues offer competitive environments for young athletes. While the city doesn’t host a minor league team, the sport remains popular among residents.

🏈 Football – High School and Collegiate

• Lewiston High School Blue Devils – Football plays a central role in Lewiston’s high school sports scene. The Blue Devils compete in Maine’s Class A, facing off against other top schools across the state. Local fan support remains strong during the fall, especially during rival matches.
• Bates College Football – The Bates Bobcats football team plays in the NCAA Division III. Though not part of the national spotlight, they contribute to the college's rich athletic tradition and provide Lewiston residents with a chance to enjoy collegiate football in town.

While Lewiston, Maine may not boast major professional franchises like Los Angeles, its commitment to sports through youth development, local competition, and collegiate athletics gives the city a proud and growing athletic identity. Whether on the ice, field, or court, Lewiston’s spirit shines through local champions and the passionate fans who support them.

Lewiston, Maine is a small city with big character. Nestled along the Androscoggin River, it’s packed with history, culture, and a strong sense of community. Here are some fun facts that make Lewiston a unique and interesting place:

1. Historic Mill City – Lewiston was once a major textile hub, with its mills powering the local economy during the 19th century.
2. Home to Bates College – Founded in 1855, Bates College is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S. and helped shape Lewiston’s intellectual culture.
3. Largest French-speaking Population in Maine – Many residents have French-Canadian roots, and you'll still hear Franco-American French spoken around town.
4. Great Falls Views – The Great Falls of the Androscoggin River sits between Lewiston and Auburn, offering stunning views every spring when the water levels rise.
5. Combat Sports History – In 1965, Lewiston hosted the world-famous Ali vs. Liston rematch, one of the most iconic boxing matches of all time.
6. Growing Somali Community – Since the early 2000s, Lewiston has welcomed a vibrant Somali immigrant population that has enriched the city’s culture and businesses.
7. Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul – This beautiful gothic-style church is one of the biggest in New England and took over 50 years to complete.
8. Lewiston and Auburn: Twin Cities – Lewiston is right next to Auburn, and the two cities often act as one, known together as the L/A Metro.
9. Colorful Festivals – The city hosts events like the Great Falls Balloon Festival each summer, which fills the sky with hot air balloons and brings thousands of visitors.
10. A City of Comebacks – Once a struggling mill town, Lewiston has seen a comeback in the last 20 years, with new art spaces, restaurants, and small businesses popping up downtown.