Hallowell

Hallowell is located in Kennebec County just south of Augusta, the state’s capital. Founded in 1771, the city was originally the home of many chemists, physicians, politicians, inventors and artists. Still today, many creative and political figures call Hallowell home because of the city's location, intimate downtown area, historical architectures and old-fashioned New England charm.

The downtown Hallowell area, bordered on the west by Middle and Warren Streets is a National Historic District full of buildings and homes that reflect numerous architectural periods from Federal to Victorian. Many locals also refer to the city as “Maine’s Antique Center" because of the many antique shops along the riverfront. In addition to antique shops, the downtown area on Water Street features art galleries, boutiques and family- owned pubs, fine restaurants and many other local businesses.

The city is also home to the Gaslight Theatre that has provided quality live entertainment to the capital area since 1937 and is the oldest continuously operating community theatre in the state.

With a total area of 6.1 miles, Maine's smallest city stretches eloquently along the shores of the Kennebec River and provides easy access to The Kennebec River Rail Trail, offering miles of scenic river views for walkers and bikers. The trail stretches almost seven miles from Augusta through Hallowell and Farmingdale, ending in Gardiner. The city also has a state-operated boat landing that is located on the south end of the city that quickly becomes the hub of activities during the warmer months as people launch their boats to cruise the Kennebec River as far as the Atlantic Ocean.

The city’s Old Hallowell Day summer festival held annually on the third Saturday in July is well-known for its amazing fireworks display as well as a cribbage tournament, road race and parade. Other Hallowell traditions include the Mardi Gras Festival (February) and Whatever Festival (June).