I have lived in the Lewiston-Auburn, Maine area since 2014 and I’ve been so impressed with how much there is to do in this area. It’s definitely underrated if not totally ignored in favor of Portland, ME. And although Portland does have more to do, I would argue that within a few years Lewiston-Auburn will be considered a new mini Portland, but way less crowded and a more relaxing destination.
I love the Lewiston-Auburn area, but for a while it had a bad reputation. Most people would just pass through this area and miss the welcoming community, great things to do, and people of this area.
One thing I love most about the area is how it’s becoming one of the most diverse areas in Maine. With immigrants joining the community from Somalia, Nigeria, Djibouti, and more countries, we get to meet some of the bravest people I’ve ever met.
For those reasons and more, I’m happy to share just a few of my favorite things to do in the Lewiston-Auburn area.
Read More: 6 Fantastic Day Trips from Portland You’ll Love
Where to eat in the Lewiston-Auburn area
One of the best things to do when visiting any new area is to check out the food! For our first things to do in Lewiston, here are our favorite restaurants!
- Fish Bones – try their truffle brussels sprouts! I recently came here with a friend and fell in love with their brussels! Who knew a veggie could taste so good?!
- Davinci’s – for their garlic knots and pizza and amazingly good salads. This is a staple in the Lewiston area amongst locals. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve eaten here but every time is delicious. They also have deserts to go – YUM!
- 84 Court Street – for authentic greek dishes. The owner here is so kind and we love eating here, especially because they are super supportive of local law enforcement officers. You have to try their pizzas!
- Wei Lei – for the best Chinese food. Somehow eating from Wei Lei doesn’t give you the normal post Chinese food feeling. They cook their food in a more healthy way and you can definitely feel the care they put into making the dishes. Plus they are so friendly!
- Italian Bakery – the best donuts around. And they are SO CHEAP! I don’t know how they do it but they have the best pastries hands down.
- Fielder’s Choice Ice Cream – for ridiculously huge portions and homemade flavors. We come here WAY TO OFTEN in the summer. They only accept cash but they have an ATM on site.
- She Doesn’t Like Guthries – for healthy lunch options. I always order a sweet potato and black bean quesadilla with smoked tofu. Delish!
- Forage Market – the best cafe and bagels. I love the atmosphere in this place. My favorite spot for a Chai Latte.
- El Pochos Mexican Grill – authentic Mexican food. When you go here you’ll see it’s in a gas station. Trust me, go inside, you won’t regret it. Their food can be spicy so make sure to ask if that’s not your thing. So yummy!
- Luchador Tacos – I love both their South Paris and Auburn locations. I highly recommend their Taco Sampler!
Outdoor things to do in the Lewiston and Auburn
Getting outside is a great way to explore a new area. Here are outdoorsy things to do in Lewiston and Auburn, Maine
- Walk along Lake Auburn Trail for a 3.9 mile out and back trail
- Easy hikes in Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary. This is a perfect trail for families with young kids because the trail is relatively easy and there are cool spots along the way. Dogs aren’t allowed because it’s a bird sanctuary though so keep that in mind.
- Walk the track for free at Bates College. I really enjoy this option in the summertime when you want to get a workout in but don’t want to be stuck inside on a treadmill. There are a ton of local families that use this to tire out their little ones, but people of all ages can enjoy this great option on the Bates campus.
- Mount Apatite Trail for an easy 2.7 out and back trail.
- Play a round of minigolf at Tabers Restaurant, Mini Golf and Driving Range or Roy’s for mini-golf, driving range, batting cages, and disc golf.
Things to do Near Lewiston and Auburn, Maine
- Range Pond State Park for kayaking, swimming, and walking. This place feels miles away from any city but is only 20 minutes from Lewiston. This is one of my mom’s favorite spots to relax and unwind. I would recommend coming early to enjoy the beach area to yourself.
- Vista of Maine Vineyard and Cidery Tasting Room – local winery with beautiful sunsets. This vineyard is quickly becoming one of the best known in the state due to it’s stunning views and relaxing atmosphere.
- Wallingford’s and Ricker Hill Orchards – Make sure to visit in the fall for pick-your-own apples and pumpkins and delicious apple cider and donuts. This is one of my favorite things to do on a fall day. You really can’t beat a warm cup of local apple cider and then you add homemade donuts?! It will be a highlight of your trip.
- Attend a play at Bates College! My mom and I attended a Bates Play recently and it was a blast! The students were so talented!
- Nezinscot Farm has a wonderful selection of locally grown produce and meats as well as a Fiber arts attic upstairs with yarn and fiber. They have local cheeses, breads, pastries, meats, veggies, fruits, soaps, teas, and bulk goods.
- The Meadows Golf Club. This is a great option if you want to get into the country a bit and have a relaxing time outside. I know the owners and they’re great guys! PLus they have a full bar and grill. They also have Tacos & Trivia and Cribbage Nights!
Where to Stay in Lewiston/Auburn Maine
Okay, so by now you should be convinced to give Lewiston-Auburn a shot. Here’s where you can stay during your visit.
- Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverfront
- Residence Inn by Marriott
- Hampton Inn Lewiston-Auburn
- Martin Stream Campground
- Riverbend Campground
Final Thoughts
Lewiston and Auburn, Maine has so much to offer!
As you saw, there are tons of things to do in Lewiston and Auburn, Maine including great places to eat, outdoor activities nearby as well as breweries, theaters, museums, and shopping options as well.
Whether you’re passing through and coming to stay a few days, Lewiston-Auburn is definitely worth visiting.
