Dresden, Maine

Kennebec River farms and historic mills

Overview

Dresden lines the eastern bank of the Kennebec opposite Richmond. Its 1761 Pownalborough Courthouse anchors local history, while Route 197 and country lanes pass dairy farms and marshes. The town offers easy reach to Wiscasset, Bath, and Augusta.

Key Facts

Population 1,700

Region Midcoast Maine

County Lincoln

Founded 1794

Nearest City Augusta (20 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Dresden Is Known For

Dresden Local Highlights

Pownalborough Courthouse

A Colonial-era courthouse preserved by the Lincoln County Historical Association.

River scenery

Tidal Kennebec views, boat launches, and wildlife along Route 128.

Rural farmland

Open fields and small farms characteristic of inland Midcoast.

Things to Do

Tour the courthouse

Step into 18th-century Maine history on the river bluff.

Paddle the Kennebec

Use local launches for calm tidal stretches.

Explore nearby towns

Pair Dresden with Richmond’s waterfront or Wiscasset’s shops.

Living in Dresden

Dresden offers rural homes with quick commutes to Augusta, Wiscasset, or Bath. Residents rely on nearby towns for groceries and services.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-82 F

winter

Cold, 12-30 F with coastal influence

spring

Cool and muddy, 40-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with strong foliage along the river

How to Get There

Cross the Kennebec from Richmond via Route 197; Route 27/128 runs north-south to Wiscasset and Woolwich.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Dresden outline

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Lighthouse Touring

Year-round (Best: June - Oct)

Sea Kayaking

Summer & Fall (June - October)

Related Guides

Farm Visits & Baby Animals

Spring is baby animal season. Here is where to hold a lamb and see the fiber arts in action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dresden known for?

Dresden is known for the 1761 Pownalborough Courthouse, a Colonial-era landmark preserved by the Lincoln County Historical Association. The town lines the eastern bank of the Kennebec River opposite Richmond, with tidal views, dairy farms, and marshes.

How far is Dresden from Augusta?

Dresden is about 20 minutes from Augusta. The town offers rural homes with quick commutes to Augusta, Wiscasset, or Bath via Route 197 and the bridge to Richmond.

What can I do in Dresden?

Visitors can tour the historic Pownalborough Courthouse on the river bluff, paddle calm tidal stretches of the Kennebec River, and explore nearby Richmond's waterfront or Wiscasset's shops and restaurants.