Lewiston, Maine

Maine's Second Largest City

Lewiston from the air, the brick mill blocks along the Androscoggin with the church spires behind them. The mills are why the city is here and why so much of it was built at once. Photo by Quintin Soloviev via source, CC BY 4.0. Resized for this page.

Overview

Lewiston, often paired with its twin city Auburn across the river, is a city of transformation. Once a textile manufacturing giant, its massive brick mills have been reimagined as restaurants, breweries, and housing. It is home to Bates College, a prestigious liberal arts school, and boasts the stunning Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

Key Facts

Population 37,121

Region Kennebec Valley

County Androscoggin

Founded 1795

Nearest City Portland (45 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Lewiston Is Known For

Lewiston Local Highlights

Bates College

Home to a prestigious liberal arts college founded in 1855.

Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

A stunning French Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline.

Bates Mill Complex

A massive historic mill complex revitalized with shops, breweries, and housing.

Great Falls Balloon Festival

Host of a major hot air balloon festival over the Androscoggin River.

Things to Do

Visit the Basilica

Marvel at the architecture and stained glass of this historic church.

Explore the Bates Mill Complex

Shop, dine, or visit the museum in the renovated mill buildings.

Walk the trails at Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary

Hike in this 372-acre wildlife preserve and bird sanctuary.

Attend the Balloon Festival

Watch dozens of balloons launch over the river in August.

Visit the Bates College Museum of Art

See exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

Living in Lewiston

Lewiston is one of the most affordable cities in Maine. It offers an urban environment with a diverse population, access to healthcare (Central Maine Medical Center), and a growing arts scene.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm and humid, 70-85°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 15-30°F

spring

Cool thaw, 45-60°F

fall

Colorful foliage, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Urban wildlife Bald Eagles (at Great Falls) Peregrine Falcons

How to Get There

Lewiston is located off I-95, about 45 minutes north of Portland and 30 minutes south of Augusta.

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

Satellite preview

Lewiston outline

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Balloon Festival?

The Great Falls Balloon Festival is a major summer event where dozens of hot air balloons launch over the Androscoggin River falls.

Is Lewiston safe?

Like any city, it has areas to avoid, but the downtown and college areas are generally safe and active. It is experiencing a significant revitalization.