What To Do When In Auburn, Maine? (2024)
Auburn is Maine’s South-Central city and, indeed, a very beautiful one. Auburn co-sits with its sister city ‘Lewiston’ and therefore, both of them are often recognized as Twin Cities or Lewiston–Auburn. It, though, is a well-planned city, but since Auburn has more rural areas, the vibes here are more town-like. The city is safe and clean, has pleasant weather, and has a lot of fun activities to do. For an off-beat vacation, travelers often choose Auburn as their go-to destination. This South-Central city in Maine is ideal for both a day trip and a leisurely weekend getaway.
Being in Auburn means spending maximum time in Maine’s beautiful and undisturbed outdoors. You will come across scenic river paths, get views of some excellent lakes and mountains, and experience the mesmerizing Fall Foliage along with so many other things. Apart from nature’s richness, Auburn is also popular for its cultural entities. No matter what age you are or what interests you possess, you will find something suiting your choices here. So why wait? Let’s begin with finding out the Most Popular Things To Do In Auburn.
What To Do When In Auburn, Maine?
Have a look at some of our choicest picks.
1. Take A Walk Along The Auburn Riverwalk
When in Auburn, never miss the opportunity to stroll around the Auburn Riverwalk. This natural trail is right behind the Hilton Garden Inn near Androscoggin River’s Great Falls. Auburn Riverwalk crosses the street at the intersection of Court and Main Street in Auburn. It further continues all the way behind Festival Plaza and then meanders by the Androscoggin River. At the point where the trail split, nature walkers can either follow it to the Lewiston side via the railroad trestle or towards Bonney Park. Throughout the way, one can admire the gorgeous Androscoggin River with its waterfalls, rocks, and bridges. The Auburn Riverwalk also provides an excellent view of the Twin Cities, gardens, outdoor art, and benches. The entire riverwalk extends 6 miles long and is marked as easy.
2. Ski and Snowboard at the Lost Valley
For an ultimate winter holiday in Auburn, do not dare to skip spending a day at the Lost Valley. Lost Valley in Auburn is a winter playground featuring plenty of trails that both skiers and skateboarders enjoy. The area features nearly 22 trails, the addition of 9 gladded trails, three terrain parks, 240 feet of vertical drop, and 2,500 feet longest run. To ensure smooth operations, there are two double chairlifts, one tow lift (in the snow tubing park), and one ground lift carpet. Even when the crowd is at its peak, one doesn’t have to wait long for their turn. Maximum trails at Lost Valley are kept easy and intermediate in terms of difficulty level. In contrast, nearly 33% of them are kept for advanced-level skiers in expert terrain. That was about winter; however, the region doesn’t shutdowns in summer. Instead, Lost Valley, during the summer season, operates other modes of recreation, including mountain biking, horseshoes, and corn hole, along with a microbrewery and a brew pub.
3. Buy and Sell at Orphan Annie’s
Orphan Annie’s is a priceless antique shop in Auburn with a wonderful section to shop from. They have been collecting and selling antiques for over four decades now and with quite an appreciable collection. Orphan Annie’s has a wide variety of antiques, clothes, gifts, lamps, jewelry, glassware, stones, chandeliers, vintage magazines, historical books, and whatnot. Their collection also includes a range of heritage photographs and Victrolas that history enthusiasts will love knowing about. You can either shop from this unique one-of-a-kind place or even sell something antique you own. The owner of Orphan Annie’s has been in this business for years now and therefore holds quite impressive knowledge. Shopping here and interacting with the owner is definitely an overwhelming feeling.
4. Hike at the Spring Road Trail
Auburn is full of outdoor opportunities and the Spring Road Trail is one of them. The Spring Road Trail is an easy 2.1-mile long trail (one way) following the edge of Lake Auburn. It is located on a wide gravel road, has numerous viewpoints in between, and is gated at the end. The trail is wide with a largely packed gravel surface and is ideal to walk, jog or run around. In some areas, there are loose stones and gravel hills, but that won’t add any difficulty to one’s experience. Through the 2 long miles, several beautiful vistas of Lake Auburn will greet you. Biking along the Spring Road Trail is another popular alternative that both locals and tourists enjoy. The Spring Road Trail greets hikers beautifully throughout the year, especially during the Fall and Winter seasons.
5. Plan a Picnic at Mount Apatite Park
One of the most popular things to do in Auburn is picnicking in Mount Apatite Park. This 325-acre wooded park is located in the western part of the city near 64 Mt. Apatite Road. It serves as a natural and recreational wonderland to the city and attracts both locals and visitors. Mount Apatite Park features nearly four miles of multi-purpose trail. It serves different recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and trekking. During winter, the same trail serves fun-loaded activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. While hiking through the trails you will come across ponds with frogs and turtles, various rocks and minerals, and admire the beautiful scenery. Pack yourself a wholesome afternoon picnic, and you will find several spots to enjoy it. Or, in case you are interested in real farm-to-table catering, then pay a visit to Mount Apatite Farm.
6. Enjoy a Round of Golf and Good Food at Tabers Restaurant and Golf
Tabers Restaurant and Golf is located right on the shores of Lake Auburn and is quite a classic place to check out. When it was established in 1941, it was just a small vegetable stand. However, soon enough, it blossomed into a Restaurant, Miniature Golf, and Driving Range. Everyone who visits Auburn makes sure to explore Tabers at least once, especially for its mini golfing experience. There’s nothing like playing a game of mini golf with the whole family while enjoying a nice view of Auburn Lake and its surroundings. When done with that, relish the Classic American menu at Tabers Restaurant. Their home-style chicken, juicy burgers, tuna, and lobster rolls are worth trying. When done with food, save some hunger for Tabers’ famous icecreams that are available in 23 different flavors.
7. Fox Ridge Golf Club
Featuring over 200 acres (81 ha) of natural structure land, the Fox Ridge Golf Club is a popular place to visit in Auburn. Ranked as one of the best golf courses in Maine and the United States, Fox Ridge is often cited by notable organizations and magazines. The Golf club has numerous designated courses so that players of all levels (beginners and professionals) can enjoy their golfing sessions thoroughly. Especially if you are a golf enthusiast, you will definitely have an enjoyable time here. What creates a challenging layout for golf enthusiasts are the century-old stone walls, brooks, and bridges. Fox Ridge Golf Club is all about unparalleled variety, universal playability, outstanding conditions, and of course the tranquil rural beauty. The sheer beauty of rolling hills and wooded and open lands here is panoramic.
8. Soak Into the Serenity of Basilica Saints Peter and Paul
Basilica Saints Peter and Paul is located officially in Lewiston but is less than 5 minutes from Auburn. Founded in 1870, this impressive church structure resembles the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and therefore is quite appealing from an architectural point of view. The church operates for both tourism and spiritual visit throughout the year. A visit inside will introduce you to two electro-pneumatic pipe organs (Opus 1587 (above the sanctuary) and Opus 1588 (in the gallery)), both made by Casavant Frères. The latter of these two is also the largest church organ in Maine and, therefore, a must-watch. Besides that, the beautiful stained glass windows and other interior features inside the church are quite appealing to be seen. In addition, you will also come across some admirable paintings.
9. Shop at Republic Jewelry & Collectibles
When in Auburn, do not miss shopping at Republic Jewelry & Collectibles. They have the finest jewelry collection that will suit people of tastes and ages. While browsing their collection, you will come across unique and antique pieces. The owners are considerate enough to even create custom jewelry. The staff at Republic Jewelry & Collectibles always shower buyers with honest and knowledgeable opinions on what metal and stone will suit better to their personality. Their collection even consists of metal detectors with a full line of sports cards and supplies and many antique, rare coins. The best part about shopping here is even though they sell valuables, you can still bargain here.
10. Places To Eat And Drink When In Auburn
- Side by Each Brewing Co.
- 99 Restaurants for hearty family meals
- Sapphire Nightclub and Event Center
- Family Time Dine & Play
