Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in Southern Maine? Head to Lewiston! Discover rich cultural heritage, scenic riverfront parks, and lively arts venues. Whether you’re exploring historic mills, sampling local eats, or hiking forested trails, Lewiston offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor fun.
Lewiston, ME Highlights:
- Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul: Marvel at one of Maine’s largest and most beautiful churches, rich in Gothic Revival architecture.
- Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary: Hike miles of wooded trails and spot local wildlife in this urban nature preserve.
- Museum L-A: Learn about Lewiston-Auburn’s fascinating industrial and immigrant history inside a restored mill.
- Riverwalk and Simard-Payne Memorial Park: Stroll along the Androscoggin River and enjoy concerts, festivals, and open green spaces.
- Downtown Lewiston: Explore local shops, art galleries, cafes, and unique restaurants in a walkable historic core.
Best Time to Visit Lewiston, ME
The best time to visit Lewiston is from late spring through early fall (May through October). Mild weather is ideal for enjoying parks, outdoor concerts, hiking, and nearby coastal or mountain day trips.
How to Get to Lewiston, ME
- If you are traveling by car: Lewiston is located off I-95, about 40 minutes north of Portland and 2.5 hours from Boston.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines and Greyhound provide bus service to Lewiston from Portland, Boston, and beyond.
- By Plane: Portland International Jetport (PWM) is about 45 minutes away and offers car rentals and shuttle services.
Where to Stay in Lewiston, ME
- Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch – Overlooking the Androscoggin River, close to downtown attractions and river trails.
- Hampton Inn Lewiston-Auburn – Modern amenities, indoor pool, and easy access to Lewiston-Auburn highlights.
- Inn at the Agora – Historic boutique inn offering charming, unique accommodations right in the heart of Lewiston.
Best Things to Do in Lewiston, ME
1. Museum L-A
Explore local labor history and discover unusual exhibits in a restored mill.
The Museum L-A is situated at the historic Bates Mill on Canal Street in Lewiston, Maine and shares the story of community and work in the state’s “Twin Cities” of Auburn and Lewiston. Visitors to the museum can discover the area’s rich history of cultural influences, community expansion, industrial commitment, and labor, through a number of special programs and engaging exhibits that encourage learning across generations and family fun. The Museum L-A also features a Museum Shop.
35 Canal Street, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-333-3881
2. Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary
Hike wooded trails and spot spring birds on a peaceful family outing.
The Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary is owned and operated by the Stanton Bird Club and has been an active part of conservation efforts within the area of Androscoggin County for more than eighty years. This nature sanctuary in the city of Lewiston, Maine encompasses approximately 450 acres of wildlife preserve and has been the bird club’s primary focus throughout the years. Located at the city’s highest point at 510 feet, the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary is set as a “green capstone,” providing a forest oasis in the middle of urban life. The area offers activities like nature photography, hiking, birdwatching, and more.
360 Montello St, Lewiston, ME 04243, Phone: 888-363-0007
Attractions for Couples
3. The Public Theatre
See professional shows and enjoy an affordable night of live entertainment.
The Public Theatre is a professional Equity theater that puts on Broadway-quality theater productions for both local residents and tourists alike the Maine, but at a more affordable ticket price. The Public Theatre produces a variety of contemporary plays from the month of October through the month of May, performed by talented, professional actors.
31 Maple St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-782-3200
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Androscoggin River
Walk along the riverfront and admire relaxing fall views.
The Androscoggin River, which extends from Brunswick/Bath to the border of New Hampshire, has transformed from one of the Northeast region’s most polluted rivers to a year-round outdoor recreation area. Anglers divide the Androscoggin River in two as the "Lower Androscoggin" and the "Upper Androscoggin," and fishing is allowed throughout all four seasons down the whole length, with some regulations at different sections. The Lower Androscoggin travels through the Auburn/Lewiston area downstream to the Merrymeeting Bay, combining with the waters of Kennebec River. This section is popular among boaters and shoreline anglers, particularly fishing for northern pike and smallmouth bass.
5. Bates College Museum of Art
View rotating exhibits and explore exciting contemporary sights on a quick visit.
The Bates College Museum of Art is located on the campus of Bates College and is home to a variety of art mediums showcasing the state of Maine, as well as the greater area of America. The collection at this local art museum provides an overview of contemporary and modern art, with a primary focus for the main collection on work on paper, which includes photographs, prints, and drawing of both contemporary and modern artwork. The Bates College Museum of Art also publishes several art publications and art collections each year and offers many workshops, artist symposiums, and lectures.
75 Russell St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-786-6158
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. Franco Center
Celebrate French heritage and enjoy romantic concerts in a historic venue.
The Dolard and Priscilla Gendron Franco Center in the Lewiston-Auburn area is the premier event and performance center in Central Maine. The Franco Center believes that heritage and history are action verbs, the same as neighbor and community, and practices these through engaging the members of the local community, both old and young, to share their traditions and experiences so everyone may benefit from them. The Franco Center serves as an organization for the performing arts, celebrating the Franco-American culture and heritage, as well as cultures from other parts of the world, including presenting symphonic and folk music, Broadway, choirs, and more.
46 Cedar St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-783-1585
Recommended Activities for Families
7. Watch a game at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee
Cheer for local teams and savor exciting energy during a weekend event.
The Androscoggin Bank Colisee in the city of Lewiston, Maine measures approximately sixty-seven thousand square feet and is a multi-use facility capable of seating more than 4,500 people for concerts and over 3,600 for hockey games. The multi-purpose Androscoggin Bank Colisee hosts a wide array of different events throughout the year that both local residents and tourists alike can enjoy, such as hockey games, theatrical productions, ice shows, rodeos, trade shows, basketball games, and boxing matches. The facility has positioned itself as the main recreation and entertainment venue in the state’s Androscoggin County and the surrounding area.
190 Birch St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-783-2009
8. Marsden Hartley Cultural Center - Lewiston Public Library
Explore Maine’s art legacy and enjoy a quiet cultural trip.
Established in 2005, the Marsden Hartley Cultural Center - Lewiston Public Library has aided in transforming the perception people have of a library for the city’s residents from a “passive repository of knowledge” to a vibrant center for the community, providing a wide variety of cultural resources and programming.
The center gets its name for Marsden Hartley, native of Lewiston and renowned poet and artist. Hartley was one of the twentieth century’s top American painters, with his work being displayed in museums throughout the world. Callahan Hall in the Marsden Hartley Cultural Center hosts numerous cultural enrichment activities, such as dance programs, concerts, and films.
200 Lisbon St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-513-3004
9. Italian Bakery Products Co
Savor fresh pastries and grab a cheap, delicious bite to go.
Founded back in 1960 by Frank Chiaravelotti, The Italian Bakery Products Co has been operated by the Chiaravelotti family for three generations. The bakery offers freshly baked breads, tasty pastries, more than forty flavors of doughnuts, made-from-scratch deep dish pies, desserts like tiramisu and cannolis, bagels, and gluten-free options.
There are also daily specials like salmon pie, chicken pot pie, burgers, coleslaw, and red hot dogs, as well as some local favorites.
225 Bartlett St, Lewiston, ME 04240, Phone: 207-782-8312
Where to Eat in Lewiston, ME
- DaVinci's Eatery – If you are looking for hearty Italian fare served in a stylish, converted mill setting.
- Mother India – Delicious Indian cuisine with generous portions and flavorful dishes downtown.
- Forage Market – Hip spot for house-made bagels, fresh sandwiches, and a cozy café vibe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Great Falls Balloon Festival (August) – Watch colorful hot air balloons launch over the river, enjoy food vendors, and live entertainment.
- Lewiston-Auburn Art Walk (Summer months) – Celebrate local artists with downtown art displays, music, and performances.
- Festival FrancoFun (June) – French cultural festival featuring music, food, and activities celebrating Lewiston’s Franco-American heritage.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Lewiston, Maine:
- Auburn (5–10 min) – Visit Auburn Riverwalk, fish at Lake Auburn, or hike Mt. Apatite trails.
- Poland (20–25 min) – Relax at Poland Spring Resort or visit Range Pond State Park for lakeside fun.
- Freeport (30 min) – Shop outlet stores, explore LL Bean’s flagship campus, and dine at farm-to-table restaurants.
- Lisbon (15–20 min) – Hike the Androscoggin River Trail and enjoy quiet rural scenery.
- Minot (20–25 min) – Pick apples or pumpkins at local farms and enjoy peaceful countryside views.
- Turner (25–30 min) – Visit Turner Highlands for golfing or berry picking in season.
- Gray (30 min) – Explore Maine Wildlife Park, home to moose, bears, and native animals.
- Durham (25–30 min) – Relax with a picnic or light hiking at Runaround Pond Recreation Area.
- Sabbatus (10–15 min) – Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and scenic vistas at Sabbatus Pond.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is Lewiston, Maine known for?
- Lewiston is one half of "L/A" or the "Twin Cities" of Maine, with the other half being Auburn.
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How are Lewiston and Auburn connected?
- The two cities are separated by the Great Falls and the Androscoggin River.
- People can walk between the two cities along the river via the Auburn Riverwalk.
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What does Lewiston offer to visitors?
- While often linked with Auburn, Lewiston itself has numerous things to do.
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What attractions and activities can visitors enjoy in Lewiston?
- The city is home to museums, outdoor recreation activities, and historic sights.
- Visitors can enjoy live entertainment and delicious food.
Best Time to Visit Lewiston, Maine
- June to August – Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring nature.
- September & October – Stunning fall foliage, ideal for scenic drives and leaf-peeping.
- April & May – Mild spring temperatures, great for hiking and visiting local parks.
- November to March – Cooler months, perfect for enjoying winter sports and cozy escapes.
- Early October – Peak time for vibrant autumn colors and seasonal festivals.
Getting to Lewiston, Maine
- By Air
- Fly into Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 40 minutes away.
- Smaller flights may also arrive at Augusta State Airport (AUG), 35 minutes away.
- By Car
- Drive from Portland via I-95, taking about 40–45 minutes.
- Easy access from Boston in about 2 hours via I-95 North.
- By Bus
- Daily bus services from Portland and Boston with Concord Coach Lines.
- By Train
- Amtrak’s Downeaster stops in Portland, with bus or taxi connections to Lewiston.
Hotels in Lewiston, Maine
- Hampton Inn Lewiston-Auburn – Modern hotel with free breakfast, gym, and indoor pool.
- Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch – Riverside hotel with scenic views and on-site dining.
- Inn at the Agora – Charming boutique inn with historic charm and personalized service.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal for outdoor exploration and scenic walks.
Inn at the Agora – A historic boutique inn with charm.
Visit Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary – Enjoy birdwatching and nature trails.
Summer (June-August) – Great for local events and river activities.
Hampton Inn Lewiston-Auburn – A comfortable stay near downtown.
Explore the Androscoggin Riverwalk – Perfect for a relaxing stroll or bike ride.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning fall foliage and cultural events.
Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch – A scenic hotel overlooking the river.
Attend the Great Falls Balloon Festival – A spectacular event with colorful hot air balloons.
Plan Your Trip