Five fun things to do in Augusta
The Maine State House, in front of Howard Hill. (Joe Phelan/Staff Photographer)
Sarah Curra Schultz-Nielsen knows how important it is to give people helpful information. She’s director at the Lithgow Public Library in Augusta, where she’s worked 24 years. So we figured she’d be someone who’d know a lot about the city. She took a few minutes to share recommendations for a few of her favorite spots.
Where do you like to eat?
Wander Pizza is a favorite stop for a slice and a pint. Their food is fresh and their pizza types are interesting, and great for families with different tastes. Eat in or take out. It’s a gem in Augusta.
Where do you like to drink?
I recently discovered Hearthside Vine & Tap located at Maine Evergreen Hotel on the Whitten Road. The atmosphere is nice, and their cocktails are fresh and delicious.
Where do you like to connect with nature?
The Howard Hill Conservation Area (owned by the city of Augusta) is a nice hike with beautiful views of the State House. I’m excited that the Kennebec Land Trust is working on making it more accessible. This may sound strange, but taking a stroll in one of the 17 cemeteries in Augusta is both peaceful and a learning experience. There is so much history to explore, especially the Forest Grove Cemetery on Winthrop Street. Lithgow Library’s first and longtime librarian Julia Clapp is buried there.
The lookout at Howard Hill Conservation Area in Augusta, pictured April 23, provides miles-long views of Maine’s capital city. (Ethan Horton/Staff Writer)
Where do you like to shop locally?
Pistil and Page downtown on Water Street is a cozy shop where you can get plants, plant advice, and greeting cards. It’s the kind of place to go for a gift or calmly commune with the plants.
What’s a hidden gem or can’t-miss place in town?
The Andwell Hospice Thrift Store on Capitol Street is a must if you like vintage items and thrifting. The store’s displays are reset weekly, and they have a nice selection of vintage sewing patterns and a variety of pre-cut fabric. Their mission is the best part; according to their website, “Last year alone, Andwell provided more than $1.6 million dollars in free care to uninsured and underinsured patients and families. Proceeds from Andwell’s Hospice Thrift Store will always support patient care in our community.”
Five Things is a feature in which locals give our readers suggestions for exploring the state of Maine, town by town. Have a city or town you think we should explore in the future? Tell News & Culture Editor Katherine Lee at [email protected].
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Ray Routhier has written about pop culture, movies, TV, music and lifestyle trends for the Portland Press Herald since 1993. He is continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of. More by Ray Routhier
