Augusta is the capital of Maine and the seat of Kennebec County, located at the head of navigation on the Kennebec River. In 1625, settlers from Plymouth Colony established a trading post on the site, which was known by the Native American name Cushnoc. However, that settlement was abandoned in 1657. Fort Western, which is now the oldest wooden fort in the U.S., was built on the east bank in 1754 in an attempt to once again attract settlers to the region. This time, the settlement prospered and was incorporated as part of a town named Hallowell in 1771. In 1797, the residents changed the town's name to Harrington before finally, in the month of August, settling on the name Augusta. Augusta became the county seat in 1799 and was officially designated the state capital in 1827.

Old Fort Western still stands in Augusta, a popular attraction where visitors can watch its costumed residents reenact life in the 18th century. The Pine Tree State Arboretum is a botanical garden and arboretum featuring many of Maine's native trees. The Maine State Museum is located next to Capitol Park and hosts a number of exhibits detailing Maine's history, environment, and manufacturing heritage.