Kayak around our many islands, bicycle up and down the beautiful coastline, watch the sailboats in Portlands Harbor, or just take-in the sunset on Casco Bay. , head up to Congress Street to pay a visit to the namesake record shop mostly stocked with used gems. Amazing Things To See & Do In Portland, Maine - Culture Trip Naturally, the. Breakfast Paella from Local 188 Photo by Madeleine Cohen US: +1 (678) 967 4965 | UK: +44 (0)1630 35000. Adjacent to the Historical Society, in the heart of bustling Congress Street, the boyhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is the oldest standing structure on the Portland peninsula. Did you know that "The Pine Tree State" still has huge swaths of unclaimed land? Visitors can walk along the cliffside, cool off at the rocky beach, visit the childrens garden or pick up a snack at one of its handful of food vendors. Find the perfect lodging in Greater Portland Maine. Museum homes invite you to step back in time and gain a greater perspective and respect for the historic forces that continue to influence our lives. Reliable public transit, easy access to services, and well-developed infrastructure all contribute to a high quality of life in Maine that rivals a lobster meal straight from the coast of Maine. It is part of the city of Portland, Maine. From scenic float trips to challenging Class V rapids, Maines rafting centers and resorts take advantage of major rivers to provide true outdoor adventure. 6.In 1786, Portland finally broke away from Old Falmouth for good, earning independent township status on July 4. Hear the name Portland, and you probably think about a certain city out in Oregon. What is Maine known for? The 3-mile long, 1-mile wide island is best toured by bicycle (but bring your own). Conveniently located approximately six miles outside the city of Portland and just three miles of the Portland Airport, Westbrook combines business, culture, and outdoor fun in a very special community. Back coves and portholes. Portland, Maine - Wikipedia Where to Go in Maine: 11 Places You Should See in Your Lifetime Photo Credit:John Schinkervia Flickr CC2.0 By Alexandra Hall March 25, 2022 Mitch Mckee/Unsplash There are plenty of things to do in. History of Portland, Maine - Wikipedia 9 Foods to Try in Maine - TripSavvy You can't miss the Portland Head Light. Portland, Maine, is a tough little city. What is Maine Known For? 23 Things Mainers Love About Themselves Quebec utility partnering on CMP corridor may revive nuclear plant The rooms are spacious and quiet, and depending on which side of the building youre staying on, offer city or bay views. Maine is famous for picturesque coastlines and lighthouses, fresh lobster, Acadia National Park, especially in Fall and the famous horror author Stephen King. The island is the only year-round island in Casco Bay that has all unpaved roads and, while cars are allowed, most people walk, bicycle or use golf carts for transportation. , which opened in 2021. His company, Curtis & Son, set up the facility way back in 1850. Maine contains more than 500,000 acres of State and National Parks. Heres where to go in Portland. But when the malls open, that number jumps to anywhere between 60,000 and 80,000. Their update on the mai tai, Seabeast Takes a Lover, might not immediately feel like being whisked away to the tropics (Maines a bit too far north for that), but its milk-clarified mixture of rum, orgeat, curacao and lime is still paradise in a glass. neighborhood is one of its biggest draws, though not because of its catch. Portland is the closest U.S. transatlantic port to Europe, and the 20th-largest fishing port in the nation. Located approximately 7 miles south of the City of Portland, Scarborough offers the lovely rocky coastline made famous by local artist, Winslow Homer. Though smaller than some of its east coast rivals, this little city has a world-class dining scene, a truly magnificent art museum, and plenty of places to enjoy the scenic rocky coast. 17.Portland was ravaged by yet another fire on July 4, 1866. ), though the best way to start your day is with a sweet and indulgent donut. But while some might feel compelled by habit to hurry from the terminal, there are many fantastic attractions on this side of the Casco Bay Bridge. Established in 1973, its now the largest one-day festival in Maine. Dubbed Old Falmouth by historians,it was created in the aftermath of the 1690 raid. Kayaks and canoes can also be stored on rental racks and launched from the beach or the boat ramp. Plan your trip to Greater Portland Maine. According to the citys official website, its also Americas 20th-largest fishing port. Some of the more popular islands in this chain include Peaks Island, Long Island, Little and Great Diamond, Little and Great Chebeague, and Cliff Island. is a must-visit for cocktail drinkers as well as those who enjoy a dozen oysters on ice at happy hour. Clearly, Prohibition never stood a chance there. Barnums FeeJee Mermaid (which was a hoax) and lore about the Mothman. PMA displays its collection throughout these interconnected galleries and hosts a range of educational and cultural activities as well. Portland Symphony Orchestra . That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Book our small-group adventures here and explore the world, while being good to it. Sophisticated yet lively, the Old Port bar features maritime furnishings like brass diving helmets and mounted ships figureheads, while the menu is stacked with innovative signature cocktails that come in several different varieties: clarified (milk punches, etc. ), and its creative cocktail offerings, which include non-alcoholic offerings. For those seeking more of an active outdoors experience, head to Fort Williams Park, just a 15-minute drive southeast of downtown Portland. Twelve also has a stellar cocktail menu featuring both updates on classics like an Aperol spritz or unique creations such as the Bait and Switch, featuring vodka, Aperol, bell pepper, pineapple and allspice. Did you know Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Know Before You Go: Portland, Maine Facts. Dow ordered the militia to shoot, killing one protester and injuring seven more. If you are adventurous, you can experience island hopping in Casco Bay as you enjoy the waves, fresh air, and stunning scenery. 20.Former mayor Neal Dow (1804-1897) is regarded as the father of Prohibition. . It is home to the Portland International Jetport, a state-of-the-art jetport recognized for its customer service and commitment to sustainability. Mangia! 18.Attention, gum chewers: The first factory that was ever built specifically to manufacture this treat was constructed in Portland by businessman John Curtis. Home North America USA Maine Portland Reasons to visit Portland, Maine at least once in your lifetime, Posted on Published: August 7, 2022- Last updated: November 12, 2022. As a solo traveler, if you visit bars and clubs, you must try Blyth and Burrows but remember to drink moderately. All Rights Reserved, True to its name, Portland is a port city with a long history of commercial fishing, as well as being the second most active port by tonnage on the eastern seaboard. For a stay that sits somewhere between the two, check out Cambria Hotel, which opened in 2021. Speaking of which. Explore Maine's maritime history, lighthouses and forts on the coast. Bean Company, and its flagship store. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together. Third to only Florida and Louisiana, Maine has 3,478 miles of coastline (more than 5,000 miles when considering island shores). A heated ammunition exchange ensued, with Uncle Sam ultimately coming out on top. Mansions and microbrews. Located in the heart of downtown's Cultural District, the museum's campus includes an outdoor sculpture court, permanent galleries and . Gorham is the home of University of Southern Maine, where thousands of students pursue their education each year. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. The Old Port is a historic district of Portland, Maine, known for its cobblestone streets, 19th century brick buildings, and fishing piers. Favorite spots for watersports, hiking, and more include the Fore, Saco, Piscataqua, and Kennebec Rivers. Often packed with a younger crowd on weekends, its quirky decorbig on taxidermyis immediately charming. What Is Maine Known For? (16 Things It's Famous For) - Worldly Known That November, around 70 percent of voters supported a groundbreaking referendum on pot possession. The site of the museum itself exists within three historic buildingsthe Charles Shipman Payson Building, the McLellen House, and the L. D. M. Sweat Memorial Galleries. Even if you think you know everything there is to know about the citys history in the industry, fishing, and agriculture. Browse the newest Portland . For seven years, it retained the title; a two-story building on the corner of Myrtle and Congress streets served as the statehouse.But in 1827, the more centrally-located Augusta was officially designated the new capital. It is that. An affluent area filled with rich history and striking scenery, Cape Elizabeth is admired for its rolling hills and Colonial-style homes. Residents wisely cater to the surge of curious tourists as well, providing buzz-worthy cafs, stores, museums and galleries that flaunt the ingenious and the quirky in equal measure. Whether or not its exhibits make you a believer, its a fascinating compilation of curious sightings and the folklore that keep the legends alive. When traveling solo, you must visit the Portland Museum of Art to appreciate more the beauty of Portlands history and culture. The Best Breweries In Portland, Maine - cancanawards.com Located just north of Portland on the coast of Maine and covers approximately 32 square miles from the coastline to rural areas further inland. Located in the Old Port part of the city, its also conveniently located just blocks from city attractions, and the lobby is usually stocked with fresh baked cookies for guests. The East End Beach on the Promenade offers swimming and a public boat launch, as well as public toilets and changing areas during the summer months. The diversity of scenery in Portland makes for a tough decision when it comes to a stroll or a hike in and around the city. Bean was the first clothing retailer to open 24/7/365. The Maine. Your children will surely enjoy what Portland has to offer for a new and great experience. King still maintains a residence in his native state; he and his wife Tabitha divide their time between Florida and the city of Bangor. But before long, news reached federal authorities, who sent four Union ships out to capture them. The town of Cherryfield is known as the blueberry capital of the world, but you can find thriving pick-your-own farms in Portland, Freeport, Yarmouth, Westbrook, Cape Elizabeth, Biddeford, Kennebunk, Kittery, Ogunquit, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, Wells, and York. Interesting Facts & History about Maine FAQs What Is Maine Famous For? Today, The Cumberland Fair remains a true county fair and features harness racing, livestock and agriculture competitions, horticultural exhibits, pumpkin contests, and plenty of food. Come dancing on a Saturday night, or simply pop in early for a frosty pilsner. The Eastern Promenade is a historic 68.2-acre public park and recreation area in Portland, Maine. There are so many options for couples here that its hard to pick just one. Everything went downhill from there. Maines biggest city has been practically leveled on several separate occasions. They also serve cupcakes, if youre seeking something sweet with your suds. Explore Maines maritime history, lighthouses and forts on the coast. Visitors will find a sandy beach, scenic walks along the shore, a brand new library and art gallery, a gift shop, and an inn where dinner is served. 10 best places to visit in Maine - Lonely Planet 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, ME | PlanetWare PDF 011 State of Maine Department of Environmental P A 20-25 minute trip from Portland by ferry, Great Diamond Island in Casco Bay is one of the most picturesque in Maine. Our region is deeply connected to nature.Walk 70 miles of trails, visit Maines largest saltwater marsh, or cruise along island-studded Casco Bay. The islands offer visitors a chance to enjoy a slower pace of lifeexploring nature, watching for wildlife, relaxing on beaches, and admiring works of local artists. Simply stated, Bailey Island is a mecca for visitors with a yen for the ocean. A 20-25 minute trip from Portland by ferry, Great Diamond Island in Casco Bay is one of the most picturesque in Maine. Now that you know a bit more about the area, you should feel more prepared to visit with confidence. No matter what budget or level of comfort, there's surely a great local vacation home rental available. Lodging in Portland comprises a wide range of options, from the quirky and youth oriented Black Elephant Hostel to the luxurious Blind Tiger. If you take a walk at the waters edge along Commercial Street you can see a great view of the working waterfront. If you love beers, you wouldnt want to miss going to the Portland beer crawl. To prevent history from repeating itself, the city set up a fire alarm signal system the very next year. Where to Go in Portland, Maine - Paste Magazine Is Portland Maine Known For Beer? Maine is also known as the Pine Tree State! Maine is the single largest producer of blueberries in the country - over 90% of the nations blueberry crop, in fact! No question about that. Portland is also home to a long list of breweries well worth visiting, including. Read was forced to surrender and imprisoned. Each man wanted to name the spot after his hometown. Whether you get there via scenic Route 1 or on The Amtrak Downeaster, Freeport is on the must-do list for visitors to the Portland area. In 2003, he established this unique museum inside of a Portland house hed purchased. Located in the Old Port part of the city, its also conveniently located just blocks from city attractions, and the lobby is usually stocked with fresh baked cookies for guests. Youll see evidence of it in its historic homes and on closer inspection, within its lauded museums, independent art studios and galleries. Portland offers some of the best water access to neighboring islands (just a ferry ride away), historic forts, and lighthouses in all of Maine. Portland Maine Bucket List: 15 of the Best Things to Do From mouth-watering restaurants to epic lighthouses to a booming craft brew scene, Maine's main coastal city of Portland just may have it all. A three-day stay in Portland, Maine, is just enough time to visit all the beautiful lighthouses, a thriving food scene, and romantic alleyways to explore. 1. The Holy Donut opened in 2010, offering a unique spin on an A.M. treat with their own recipe that utilizes riced potato, adding a richness in texture and flavor to their donutswhich include flavors such as blueberry cinnamon sugar, dark chocolate coconut and honey lavender.