Discover Waterville: Bridges, Art and Paddling

Bridges, water and community life in Waterville

Waterville combines history with waterside experiences and offerings for a range of interests. Head of Falls Park is a site of historical significance and also serves as a lively community space. The park is defined by the Two Cent Bridge. If you want to get to know Waterville, you’ll find a place here where historical significance and community life come together.

The bridge’s history can also be put in concrete terms: the Two Cent Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Its listing in the U.S. register is therefore part of the area’s history. During your visit, you can treat the park and the bridge as a cultural stop in their own right, without confusing them with Waterville’s other bridges.

The Ticonic Bridge, also known as the Two Penny Bridge, is described as the last toll footbridge in the United States. A walk across the Two Cent Bridge offers sweeping views along the Kennebec River. The two bridges each bring something different: the Ticonic Bridge stands out for its distinctive designation, while the Two Cent Bridge is associated with the park and views of the river. If you’re interested in bridges and their history, these offer two distinct starting points for exploring Waterville.

Get active on the water and on the trails

Quarry Road provides access to almost 5 miles of flatwater paddling on Messalonskee Stream. The route’s length and flatwater character give paddling a clear focus. If you want to prioritize water activities on your trip, you can consider this option when choosing your experiences. The almost 5 miles is a specific measure of the route, not an estimate of the time required.

Another option is the Quarry Road Trails near Waterville. They offer 4 miles of singletrack for hiking and biking. The trails are 2 miles from downtown Waterville. You can choose between an outing on the water and time on the trail; the routes differ both in surface and in activity. When looking for a vacation rental, it may therefore be helpful to first consider whether paddling, hiking and biking, or exploring the city should be your main focus.

Art and discoveries for children

The Children’s Discovery Museum of Central Maine offers children in Waterville play and learning. It’s a way to combine a museum visit with hands-on learning through play. Families can consider this option alongside the outdoor activities: while the trails invite you to hike and bike and Quarry Road provides access to flatwater paddling, the museum is for children who want to learn through play.

Greene Block + Studios offers another cultural dimension, with special events such as free art workshops and art installations. These examples offer different ways to experience art: a workshop focuses on taking part, while an art installation offers a chance to view art. Together with the bridges and Head of Falls Park, they give you a range of options to balance culture, nature and activities for children according to your interests.

If you’d like to explore more places: Hallowell, Augusta, Gardiner, Manchester.

For the broader travel overview: Kennebec.