Gardiner, Maine
Maine's Historic Gateway
Overview
Gardiner is located at the confluence of the Kennebec River and Cobbosseecontee Stream. Its historic downtown is one of the most intact in the state, filled with specialty shops, restaurants, and the beautifully restored Johnson Hall Opera House. It is a popular stop for cyclists on the Kennebec River Rail Trail.
Key Facts
Population 5,961
Region Kennebec Valley
County Kennebec
Founded 1803
Nearest City Augusta (10 mins)
Town Office
Visit official website
What Gardiner Is Known For
Gardiner Local Highlights
Historic Downtown
Features one of Maine's most intact historic districts with brick buildings and unique shops.
Kennebec River
Located at the confluence of the Kennebec River and Cobbosseecontee Stream.
Johnson Hall
Maine's oldest opera house, currently being restored as a performing arts center.
Waterfront Park
A beautiful park and boat launch hosting summer concerts and festivals.
Things to Do
1
Stroll Water Street
Explore the historic downtown lined with specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants.
2
Walk the Kennebec River Rail Trail
Walk or bike north towards Hallowell and Augusta along the river.
3
Visit Waterfront Park
Watch the boats go by or attend a classic car show in the summer.
4
See a show at Johnson Hall
Enjoy live music or theater in this historic venue.
5
Dine at the A1 Diner
Eat in a classic Worcester lunch car perched on stilts over the stream.
Living in Gardiner
Gardiner is a small, manageable city with a strong community spirit. It is very commutable to Augusta and offers a more historic, walkable lifestyle than many surrounding towns.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Warm and humid, 70-85°F
winter
Cold and snowy, 15-30°F
spring
Cool, 45-60°F
fall
Colorful foliage, 50-65°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
Sturgeon (jumping in river) Bald Eagles Ospreys
How to Get There
Gardiner is located off I-295 and I-95, just south of Augusta. It is about 50 minutes north of Portland.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Gardiner outline
Outdoor Recreation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you bike to Augusta from here?
Yes, the 6.5-mile Kennebec River Rail Trail connects Gardiner directly to Augusta via Hallowell.
What are the fish jumping in the river?
Those are likely Atlantic Sturgeon, prehistoric fish that can grow very large and are often seen leaping from the Kennebec in summer.
Key Facts
Population
5,961
Region
Kennebec Valley
County
Kennebec
Founded
1803
Nearest City
Augusta (10 mins)
Town Office
Visit official website