Waterville, Maine

The Elm City

Overview

Waterville is a city undergoing a renaissance. Once a major manufacturing center, it has reinvented itself as a cultural destination, driven by the presence of Colby College and Thomas College. The downtown is vibrant with new businesses, arts organizations, and the annual Maine International Film Festival.

Key Facts

Population 15,828

Region Kennebec Valley

County Kennebec

Founded 1802

Nearest City Augusta (20 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Waterville Is Known For

Waterville Local Highlights

Colby College

A leading liberal arts college with a stunning campus on Mayflower Hill.

Maine International Film Festival

A major 10-day film festival held every July at the Railroad Square Cinema and Opera House.

Two Cent Bridge

One of the oldest surviving toll footbridges in the U.S., connecting to Winslow.

Waterville Opera House

A central Maine cultural jewel hosting concerts and theater.

Things to Do

Visit the Colby College Museum of Art

Explore one of the finest art collections in the country (admission is free).

Walk the Two Cent Bridge

Cross the Kennebec River on this historic suspension footbridge.

See a film at Railroad Square Cinema

Watch independent and foreign films at this community gem.

Hike the Quarry Road Trails

Enjoy miles of trails for walking, biking, and skiing right in the city.

Living in Waterville

Waterville is an affordable and culturally rich community. The colleges bring diversity and events to the town. It is a commercial hub for the central Maine region.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-85°F

winter

Cold with snow, 15-30°F

spring

Cool and wet, 45-60°F

fall

Crisp and vibrant, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Bald Eagles Beavers Foxes River Otters

How to Get There

Waterville is located on I-95, about 20 minutes north of Augusta and 75 minutes north of Portland. It is a central stop for bus lines heading north.

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

Satellite preview

Waterville outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Waterville

4 Days

The Kennebec Valley Explorer: River to Wilderness

Follow the mighty Kennebec River from the historic capital to the wild whitewater of the North Woods on Maine's legendary Old Canada Road.

5 Stops View Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the art museum really free?

Yes, the Colby College Museum of Art offers free admission to everyone and holds one of the finest collections of American art in the country.

Why is it called the Elm City?

It was historically known for its magnificent elm trees that lined the streets before Dutch Elm Disease affected them in the mid-20th century. Many have since been replanted.

What is the Two Cent Bridge?

It is one of the oldest surviving toll footbridges in the US. It connects Waterville to Winslow across the Kennebec River. The toll was eliminated long ago.