Augusta makes a perfect day trip. You can tour the Maine State House in the morning, step inside a 1754 riverside fort after lunch, and end the loop with hot pies and house-brewed beer. Families get a full day without long drives or guesswork. This guide maps a simple route that fits art, civics, and fresh air into one afternoon.
And when you’re in need of a break for lunch or dinner, the best family restaurant in Augusta, Maine with fast service, kid-friendly options, and local beer for adults. Park once, explore on foot, and save room for dessert.
State House First: Free Tours, Big History
Start your morning at the Maine State House. The Capitol is open to the public on weekdays; guided tours usually run on the hour between 9:00 a.m. and noon, and walk-ins are welcome when space allows. Expect about one hour for a guided visit with stories about the building, the chambers, and the dome. Bring a camera for the Hall of Flags and the long granite steps. Tours begin inside the north entrance after a quick security screen—arrive a little early so your group stays together. The State House grounds link to downtown paths, so the next stop is an easy walk.
Time-saving tip: The State House is typically open 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. on weekdays. If you begin at 9:00 a.m., you can finish by 10:00 a.m. with time for photos before moving on to your next stop.
Next Stop: Old Fort Western
Cross the bridge to the Kennebec River’s east bank and step back in time at Old Fort Western. Built in 1754, the site is often cited as the oldest wooden garrison in America still standing. Costumed staff explain daily life in the mid-18th century; kids can try simple chores, examine trade goods, and spot river traffic from the palisade. The fort runs a seasonal schedule and offers family-friendly pricing; students, seniors, and families receive reduced admission, and active military are admitted free during the regular season. Plan 60–90 minutes to explore the garrison, store, and house museum; if the weather turns, the store and house provide quick cover and plenty to see.
Lunch Break at Brickyard Hollow: Best Family Restaurant Augusta Maine & Pizza Augusta Maine
Now it is time to eat. For pizza Augusta Maine families rave about, head to Brickyard Hollow Augusta for a fast, friendly lunch. Order at the counter and your food arrives in minutes—pies bake hot and fast, which helps with hungry kids. Try the Mashed Potato & Bacon or a classic Pepperoni; split a Caesar if you want greens on the table. Gluten-free crust and vegan mozzarella keep choices open for everyone.
If you love Maine beer, build a short flight and include Trestle IPA or Pratt’s Brook Pilsner. Prefer light and crisp? The 1901 Kölsch is a great match for pizza. Download the Brickyard Hollow app to earn points and place pickup orders. You can also grab four-packs to go for later in the evening. Our Augusta taproom also carries salads, handhelds, wings, and shareable starters, so picky eaters stay happy. Want a fast pickup? Order ahead from our Augusta page and we’ll have it ready when you arrive. If you’re in a hurry, try slices and a kids’ cheese pie—both travel well.
For fans of local eatery Augusta vibes, this room feels relaxed and bright, with friendly staff who know the town. Craving variety? Build a flight, then follow it with a full pour of your favorite; beer to-go is perfect for cabins, campgrounds, and game nights. If you’re new to our lineup, browse the Beer List and check what’s pouring today. This is why locals pick BH when they search for the best family restaurant Augusta Maine can offer: it’s quick, relaxed, and built for groups. And if you want to see how we give back, explore our Community Involvement programs.
Stretch Your Legs: Kennebec River Rail Trail
After lunch, get some fresh air on the Kennebec River Rail Trail. The paved path runs 6.5 miles along the river from Augusta’s waterfront to Gardiner, with stops in Hallowell and Farmingdale. It’s flat, stroller-friendly, and perfect for a short spin or a long walk. Start downtown and turn around whenever the kids are ready; benches and overlooks make easy rest stops. Bikes, scooters, and rollerblades are welcome; dogs can join on a leash.
In summer, watch for eagles and ospreys above the river and murals along Hallowell’s waterfront; in winter, tread carefully (consider microspikes), or ski the packed edges after a storm. The trail’s frequent access points and good sightlines make it easy to keep a group together. Restrooms and water are available near downtown—pack sunscreen, bug spray, and a light layer for the breeze.
Prefer gardens and sculpture over pavement? Swap the trail for Viles Arboretum, a free, 224-acre botanical park with miles of easy paths and year-round programs—a great low-key option for multigenerational groups.
Brickyard Hollow is a warm and inviting family restaurant to end your day at!
Back to Brickyard Hollow: Brewery Augusta Maine, Game Time, Community Nights, and Dessert
Circle back to Brickyard Hollow Augusta for a casual afternoon or early dinner. Check the events calendar for Community Nights that donate a portion of sales to local groups—dinner becomes a teachable moment for kids and a feel-good routine for regulars. The house lemonade and seltzers keep drivers happy. Order another round of Four-Cheese Breadsticks or go straight for a Cookie Pizza.
Watch our social channels for pint nights and limited pizza specials tied to local events. On community nights you can give back while you dine; a portion of sales supports local causes.
Planning a reunion or team party? See Host an Event for private or semi-private options and simple menu packages (unfortunately, our Augusta location isn’t equipped to host events, but there’s probably a Brickyard Near you that does!). If you are searching for a brewery Augusta Maine locals recommend, this taproom is your easy landing pad. When everyone is full, grab a mixed four-pack for the road—and if you’re plotting a wider tour, our Locations & Menus map makes it easy.
A Great One-Day Augusta Itinerary
- 10:00 a.m. — Guided tour at the Maine State House.
- 11:30 a.m. — Walk to Old Fort Western and explore the garrison.
- 1:00 p.m. — Lunch at Brickyard Hollow Augusta.
- 2:00 p.m. — Kennebec River Rail Trail stroll or ride.
- 3:30 p.m. — Return to Brickyard Hollow for dessert or early dinner.
- Evening — Take four-packs back to your rental or campsite.
Pro tip: If your crew likes to graze, swap lunch and the trail. Do the river walk first, then eat a late lunch so little kids stay cheerful. Keep snacks and water handy and you’ll make it back for dessert without a meltdown.
Fast FAQ: Best Family Restaurant Augusta, Maine
- Do I need tickets for the State House? No. Tours are free, and the building is open on weekdays.
- Where should we park? Use the State House visitor lots in the morning, then shift to downtown for lunch and the trail.
- Is Brickyard Hollow kid-friendly? Yes—highchairs, crayons, a kids’ menu, and fast counter service keep things easy.
- Any gluten-free or vegan options? Yes. Order a cauliflower crust, vegan cheese, and salads to share.
- Can we take beer to go? Yes—crowlers and four-packs are available at the counter. See today’s lineup on our Beer List.
- Do you accept large parties? Walk-ins are welcome. For groups of eight or more, please call ahead or order in the app.
The Final Slice
Augusta rewards curiosity. Start with the dome, walk the river, and toast the day with hot pizza and a cold pint. Brickyard Hollow is your friendly base for all of it—the best family restaurant Augusta Maine families trust for easy meals and chill vibes. Bring the kids, invite friends, and make it a habit on every trip through Maine’s capital. If you visit often, join our loyalty program for points on every purchase and occasional specials. And if you want to support local nonprofits, keep an eye on Community Nights—we donate a portion of sales to partners close to home. See you soon under the dome.