MSBC FALL CONFERENCE

🏨 Where can I stay?

We have reserved a block of rooms on 9/16/25 at the The Homewood Suites by Hilton Augusta at a rate of of $187.

Just off I-95, The Homewood Suites is two miles from downtown Augusta and attractions like the Children’s Discovery Museum. Enjoy a choice of restaurants within minutes of the hotel, or meals in your suite’s fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy a free hot breakfast, and drinks and light bites are served every Wednesday at our complimentary evening social.

👉 Book Here

Use Code MSB for our special conference rate.

🍁Why travel to Augusta, Maine in September?

1. Beautiful Time of Year:
Mid-September in Augusta offers crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and the very first signs of fall foliage—making it a perfect time to explore central Maine without peak-season crowds.

2. Central & Accessible Location:
The Augusta Civic Center is just off I-95, with plenty of free parking. It’s centrally located - within a 1.5-hour drive of Portland, Bangor, and Lewiston-Auburn.

3. Affordable Lodging & Dining:
Augusta offers budget-friendly hotels near the Civic Center and a growing number of local cafés, diners, and restaurants—including farm-to-table options and family-friendly spots. (See room block details above!)

4. Make a Day (or Weekend) of It:
Pair your professional development with local exploration:

• Walk the trails at nearby Viles Arboretum or Kennebec River Rail Trail

• Visit the State Capitol

• Explore nearby Hallowell’s art galleries, shops, and riverfront charm

• Check out downtown Augusta’s revitalized riverfront district for dining and coffee

5. A High-Value Learning Experience:
Learn from statewide experts, build your network, and participate in connection learning - all in a single day, at a lower cost than national conferences.

✅ Will I be able to earn Continuing Education units?

That’s the plan! We have 5.5 approved L-CERPS through the IBLCE and are awaiting approval of 5.5 contact hours through the Connecticut Nursing Association (an accredited approver of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation). Check with your professional organization about what requirements they have for continuing education.

♿ How accessible is the Augusta Civic Center?

The Augusta Civic Center is an ADA compliant venue, however, they encourage guests who require additional accommodations to contact us before the event at 207-626-2405 to ensure that they are aware of, and can meet, required accommodations. Wheelchairs:  A limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  For more information, speak to the administrative staff in the main office.

🤱🏽Will there be a lactation room?

Of course! If you’d like a quiet place to pump or feed your baby, the Main Lounge room is being reserved for our conference lactation room. Yes, babies-in-arms (non-mobile babies) are welcome!

🥗 What about dietary accommodations?

Yes- we’ve got you covered! Please let us know your dietary needs when you register and we’ll make sure there are options for you!

🚗 How do I get to the Augusta Civic Center?

The Augusta Civic Center is conveniently located right off of I-95 in Maine.  From the South, take exit 112A.  From the North, take exit 112.  At the first light, turn left, at the 2nd light, go straight, at the 3rd light, you will see the large sign for the Augusta Civic Center on the right.  Turn right and follow the road to the Augusta Civic Center.

✈️ How would I get to the Augusta Civic Center from Portland International Jetport (PWM)?

🛣️ Driving (With a Rental Car)
The easiest and most flexible way to reach Augusta from PWM is by renting a car.

• Distance: ~55 miles

• Travel Time: About 1 hour via I-295 N to I-95 N

• Directions: From PWM, follow signs to I-295 North. Take I-295 to I-95 North (Exit 103), then take Exit 112 in Augusta. Follow Civic Center Drive and look for signs for the Augusta Civic Center.

🚕 Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Taxis and rideshares are also available from PWM.

• Estimated cost: $90–$130 one way (prices vary)

• Availability: Uber/Lyft are more common in Portland; availability in Augusta for return trips may be limited—check in advance.

🚌 Public Transportation
You can travel from Portland to Augusta without a car, though options are limited and require planning.

Concord Coach Lines

• Route: Board at the Portland Transportation Center (10 min from PWM by taxi/Uber)

• Destination: Augusta Transportation Center (approx. 1 hour 45 min)

• Cost: ~$20

• Note: You'll need a short taxi/rideshare from the Augusta bus station to the Civic Center (about 2 miles).

View Concord Coach schedule and tickets »

Let us know if you would like to explore rideshare options, too!