15 Best Things to Do in Lewiston (Maine)

Located in Androscoggin County, Lewiston is the second largest city in the state of Maine. It was officially incorporated in 1795 and now has a population of around 36,000. It is known as a multi-cultural city with a low cost of living, good access to medical care, and a very low violent-crime rate.

With a wide variety of choices when it comes to commerce, education, business, and religion, it is a great place to live and a major attraction for tourists. There are plenty of interesting things to do here in Lewiston, and today we’ll cover the top 15:

1. Visit the L-A Museum

The name doesn’t refer to Los Angeles, but rather to the Lewiston-Auburn Metropolitan Area. This museum is dedicated to the legacy left by people in this area, whether that is economic, social or technological.

The museum connects the current generations with the previous ones and displays a wide variety of exhibits related to the mill industry, shoe work, the brickyard industry and much more. Both kids and adults will enjoy this trip into the past.

2. Take a walk on the Auburn Riverwalk

Admire the beautiful Androscoggin River that separates Lewiston and Auburn by walking along it. There are plenty of wonderful sights to admire – massive rocks, waterfalls, large bridges for both cars and trains, and much more.

The trail is well maintained and there are plenty of benches so you can take a break from time to time. Have a walk if you want to, but you can also ride a bike, do some jogging or just take your dog for a wander.

3. Hike to the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary

If you love nature and outdoor activities, take a walk, a jog or even ski to the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary. At the location and along the way, you will be able to admire some beautiful scenery, two ponds, rocks, a unique stone fireplace, and an amphitheater.

There are also benches where you can take a rest or have a good picnic with your family. You will feel like you’re in the middle of a forest, even though you’re still in the city. This place is a great retreat from the downtown noise when you don’t feel like traveling too far.

4. Visit the Basilica Saints Peter and Paul

No, this is not the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, even though it resembles it. The construction is huge and impressive and it makes a great addition to the Lewiston skyline. It is a masterpiece both on the outside and inside, with some amazing paintings and stained glass.

You can get inside for a mass or a concert, or just to see its impressive size. Regardless of your faith, the Basilica Saints Peter and Paul is a must-see if you are in Lewiston or the nearby area.

5. Have a beer at the Baxter Brewing Company

If you happen to be in Lewiston during a hot summer’s day, at some point, you will get thirsty. What better way to quench your thirst than with a cold beer? The guys at the Baxter Brewing Company have a good selection of self-made beers that you can taste on the spot or take away.

The staff are friendly and professional and will gladly explain the brewing process and tell you more about each type of beer. The tap room is quite small, which means that you can enjoy a good beer in a quiet and intimate place, instead of a large bar filled with people.

6. Admire Veteran’s Park

Located near the river and close to an impressive waterfall, this park was built in memory of those who lost their lives for the country. It includes multiple plaques and benches with all the names of the veterans that served the country and gave their lives.

Take a quiet walk here, enjoy the scenery, and bring a tribute to those who made Lewiston what it is today.

7. Watch a play at the Public Theatre

This is not just a regular theatre in a small city, but an award-winning one. It was named “The Best Theatre in Maine” from 2014 to 2017 and is committed to bringing high-quality performances at an affordable price.

Here, you can admire some of the best plays (including some from Broadway) featuring some of the top actors in the country. As mentioned earlier, the Public Theatre wants everyone to join, so prices are very low.

They also do their best to promote theatre among the younger generation, so children under 18 can get a ticket for just $5.

8. Visit the Bates College Museum

This is an important source when it comes to beautiful works of art, for both locals and tourists. Here you will find a wide variety of paintings, drawings, photographs and personal items of some very talented local artists.

The exhibitions are changed quite often, so even if you have been here before, it’s definitely worth another visit.

Even though it’s a small place, this museum is highly appreciated by those who love art. Make sure to stop by and spend some time contemplating the work of talented people. There is always a staff member on site to guide you and answer your questions.

9. Listen to classical music at the Franco Center

You might wonder why this place looks exactly like a church but doesn’t have the name of one. This is because it used to be the St. Mary Church until it was decommissioned and turned into the Franco Center.

While still preserving the church décor and stained glass, the center now organizes a wide variety of concerts with classical music orchestras, opera, and religious music. Listen to the music but also appreciate the inside of the building; you might find some old treasures and artifacts from the past.

10. Watch a game of hockey at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee

Whether you are a fan of this sport or just want to witness something new, head to this arena and watch a game of hockey with the local teams. The place is clean and well maintained and you will also find food and drinks to enjoy during the game.

When there are no hockey games, the arena hosts other sports too (like fighting), as well as concerts, parties, car shows, tattoo expos and more.

11. Get a good book from the Lewiston Public Library

Whether you want to spend a few hours here wandering through the hundreds of books, or you want to borrow one and read it on a bench near the Androscoggin River, then make sure to visit the Lewiston Public Library.

They have plenty of books on various topics, as well as a section dedicated to the Marsden Hartley Cultural Center. The staff are very friendly and helpful and will help you find the right book. For the young ones, they even have a special activity of “reading to a dog,” receiving chocolate dog bones in return.

12. Have a wine at the Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery Tasting Room

Located in Greene, just outside of Lewiston, this tasting room has a wide variety of delicious wine and cider to try, as well as beautiful views of the White Mountains and the Sabattus Lake.

If you drink a glass of each of their assortments you would definitely get a little tipsy, so that’s why you can first taste them and then order a full glass of just those that you like the most.

You can either stay inside or – if the weather allows it – sit outside at the picnic tables on the lawn and admire the beautiful scenery.

13. Buy some antiques from Orphan Annies

Whether you are passionate about antique items or just want a nice memory from Lewiston or a cool gift for someone special back home, feel free to stop by Orphan Annies. The place is very well organized and you will find all sorts of unique items; it’s easy to spend a few hours here.

Lamps, chandeliers, glassware, jewelry, figurines, clothes, gifts – you name it, there is something for everyone. The items are all sorted cleverly, so it’s easier for visitors to look around and find the perfect gift for their needs.

14. Skate at the RolloDrome

It doesn’t matter if you are talented at skating or not, come by the RolloDrome and just have some fun. This is the oldest skating rink in the area and has been operating for more than 60 years.

Skating is enjoyable for all ages, so the entire family will love it here. They have a wide variety of music in the background and a large screen to watch sports games.

15. Play golf at the Fox Ridge Golf Club

Looking for a fun activity for the family? Head to the Fox Ridge Club. The staff are friendly and will give you all the tools, as well as teaching you how to use them (in case you don’t already know). They have courses for both beginners and advanced players so that everyone can have a good time.

The fields are well maintained and there are some water challenges, a clubhouse dining area, and a shop.

Where to stay: Best Hotels in Lewiston, Maine (ME)

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