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Waterville
Steeped in history and boasting a thriving cultural arts scene, Waterville is the idyllic Maine city. With a population of 16,000, Waterville combines small-town charm with the conveniences of a larger city, and its central location provides easy access to both charming coastal Maine and the rustic greater lakes region. The town has become a popular foodie destination with many fabulous restaurants including the new Front & Main located in the Lockwood Hotel. Waterville is home to several outstanding shops, facilities, and events, including the Maine International Film Festival, the Atlantic Music Festival, the Waterville Opera House, the Riverwalk, Quarry Road Trails, and more.
Waterville Revitalization Projects
Thanks to a federal BUILD grant, acquired by the city of Waterville in collaboration with Colby College, Downtown Waterville is getting a facelift. Over 9 million dollars will be spent improving traffic, pedestrian spaces, city parks, and Mainstreet appeal. Colby has also invested in the downtown cityscape directly, opening The Bill and Joan Alfond Mainstreet Commons and 173 Main, which houses student apartments, staff offices, and street-level retail and event space.
A Hub For The Arts Community
Waterville has long been a hub for activity in the arts. Home to The Maine Film Center, The Waterville Opera House, Waterville Creates, and Railroad Square Cinemas; and annually hosting the Maine International Film Festival and The Atlantic Music Festival: Waterville’s arts scene is expanding. In addition to the ongoing revitalization efforts Downtown, Colby recently opened Greene Block + Studios: A public gallery and art innovation center. Additionally, The Paul J. Schupf Arts Center, scheduled to open in 2022, is a massively collaborative effort that will bring Waterville’s art institutions under one roof and add three screening rooms, two art galleries, and a new rehearsal studio to the downtown strip.
Drive To Many Popular Destinations
Waterville is within easy reach of many popular destinations in the state. Conveniently located off Interstate 95, Waterville is a 70-minute drive to Portland and the popular mid-coast and casco bay regions. A bit further away is Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, two popular tourist destinations. Waterville is also within an hour of popular hiking and mountain biking trails and canoeing and kayaking spots in the western greater Lakes region.