Looking for a cultural and scenic getaway in Central Maine? Head to Waterville! Home to art, academia, and outdoor adventures, Waterville offers a blend of riverfront recreation, local food, and small-town charm. Whether you're exploring museums, hiking trails, or enjoying festivals, this Kennebec Valley gem has year-round appeal.
Waterville, ME Highlights:
- For Couples: Browse and sip in downtown Waterville – Enjoy art galleries, bookstores, and cozy cafés followed by a scenic riverfront walk.
- For Families: Play and learn at the Children’s Discovery Museum – Hands-on exhibits and interactive fun for kids and parents alike.
- For Adventurous Travelers: Paddle or fish on the Kennebec River – Access nature in the heart of the city with kayaking or fly-fishing.
- For Art Lovers: Visit the Colby College Museum of Art – View one of New England’s finest collections of American art, with free admission.
- For Shoppers: Discover local finds at REM Artisan Center – Handcrafted gifts, Maine-made goods, and community spirit downtown.
Best Time to Visit Waterville, ME
The best time to visit Waterville is from late spring through fall (May to October), when the weather is ideal for hiking, river recreation, and local events. Fall foliage is stunning, and summers offer vibrant festivals. Winter brings its own charm with snow sports and holiday activities.
How to Get to Waterville, ME
- If you are traveling by car: Waterville is located along I-95, about 1 hour north of Portland and 1.5 hours from Bangor.
- By Plane: Fly into Portland International Jetport (PWM) or Bangor International Airport (BGR), both under 90 minutes away by car.
- By Bus: Concord Coach Lines provides service to Waterville from Boston and other New England cities.
Where to Stay in Waterville, ME
- Lockwood Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel downtown with artful touches and an on-site restaurant.
- Fireside Inn & Suites – Comfortable lodging with classic amenities and easy access to I-95 and downtown.
- Best Western Plus Waterville Grand Hotel – Great for families or business travelers with a pool and on-site dining.
Best Things to Do in Waterville, ME
⮕ Admire art at the Colby College Museum of Art
The Colby College Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for all art lovers visiting Colby. Located on the campus of Colby College, the art museum is home to a diverse collection of over 10,000 works of art, with an emphasis on contemporary works and American artists. In addition to showcasing a large permanent collection, the museum also hosts regularly rotating special exhibitions.
Highlights of the permanent collection include the 76 works which make up the American Heritage Collection and the prized Lunder Collection. Visitors can admire important works by artists such as John Singleton Copley, Georgia O’Keeffe and Fairfield Porter, to name but a few. The museum is free to visit and everyone is welcome.
Colby College Museum of Art, 5600 Mayflower Hill, Waterville, ME 04901, Phone: 207-859-5600
⮕ See the Two Cent Bridge
Every visitor to Waterville should take the time to walk across the Two Cent Bridge , which has an interesting history. The bridge links the two towns of Waterville and Winslow, which lie on either side of the Kennebec River. The original bridge was built in 1901 to provide access for workers from Waterville who were employed in the mills in Winslow. Each person had to pay one cent at the toll booth or take the long way around. The bridge you see today was built in 1903, when the original structure was washed away and eventually the toll price was raised to 2 cents, which gave the bridge its common name. Over the years the bridge has been renovated and refurbished several times and the toll has been abolished.
Two Cent Bridge, Waterville, ME 04901
⮕ Hike on Quarry Road Trails
The Quarry Road outdoor recreational facility attracts visitors from all over Maine and beyond. Back in the 1930, groups of locals started experimenting with skiing on the site. With little infrastructure, the site did not reach its full potential until around 2007, when volunteers and enthusiastic skiers once again rallied around to develop the site. Today visitors can come to explore the Quarry Road Trails all year round. In winter you can enjoy down-hill skiing, cross-country, sledding, snow-shoeing and fat-biking. In summer the area is a paradise for walking, hiking, trail-running, cycling and paddling on the beautiful Messalonskee Stream. The site hosts exciting outdoor events and competitions all year round.
Quarry Road Trails, 300 Quarry Rd, Waterville, ME 04901, Phone: 207-314-0258
⮕ Take the kids to Cappza’s Pizza
Pizza has been a part of Chad Partridge’s life since he was a small boy. His parents have always owned a pizza restaurant and the young Chad spent many hours learning how to make a perfect pizza from the experts. Today Chad is the owner of Cappza’s Pizza in Waterville, where the age old pizza traditions that he learnt from his parents are continued. The menu offers a large selection of pizza choices from make-your-own concoctions to specialties like their Cheeseburger Pizza. In addition to pizza you can enjoy appetizers, sandwiches, wraps and desserts. Guests are welcome to eat in or call for a takeaway.
Cappza’s Pizza, 255 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901, Phone: 207-873-7770
⮕ Waterville Opera House and City Hall
Hosting more than 100 events each year, the Waterville Opera House and City Hall brings the joy of live performance theatre to Waterville. This beautifully restored Colonial-Revival style Opera House has been thrilling audiences for 120 years and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Not restricted to operatic performances, the Opera House stages all kinds of wonderful shows including dance productions, community theatre, music concerts and comedy shows. They also host school shows and theatre camps for aspiring young performers as well as presenting the popular Waterville Rocks annual outdoor concerts. Visitors can check their website to see what’s on and book your tickets online.
Waterville Opera House and City Hall, 1 Common Street, Waterville, ME 01901, 207-873-7000
More Places to Eat in Waterville, ME
- Front & Main – Contemporary American cuisine in a stylish space located inside the Lockwood Hotel.
- Amici’s Cucina – Cozy Italian spot known for homestyle favorites and hearty portions.
- Holy Cannoli – A fun, casual café offering sandwiches, pasta, desserts, and of course, cannoli!
If you are interested in local events:
- Maine International Film Festival (July) – Celebrating cinema with screenings, panels, and guests from around the world.
- Waterville Downtown Farmers’ Market (May–October) – Fresh produce, baked goods, and local treats on Thursdays.
- Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights (November) – Kick off the holiday season with festive floats and cheer.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Waterville, Maine:
- Belgrade Lakes (25 min) – Kayak, fish, or hike in this scenic lake region known for summer fun and fall foliage.
- Skowhegan (30 min) – Visit art studios, hike local trails, or stop by the farmers’ market in this revitalized river town.
- Augusta (25–30 min) – Tour the Maine State House or explore the trails and riverfront parks in the capital city.
- China Lake (20 min) – Swim, boat, or picnic at this peaceful and family-friendly recreation spot.
- Vassalboro (15–20 min) – Enjoy antique shopping, countryside charm, or a quiet round of golf.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why is Waterville a great destination for a weekend getaway?
- The pretty coastal town of Waterville is a fantastic destination for a relaxing and activity-filled weekend getaway.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Waterville?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can have hours of fun at the Quarry Road Trails, which offer excellent hiking in summer and a variety of fun winter sports, including downhill skiing.
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What cultural attractions does Waterville offer?
- The Colby College Museum of Art is one of the finest art museums in the country, featuring vibrant collections that will thrill all art lovers.
Plan Your Trip