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Here’s a list of top things to do in Greater Portland that won’t break the bank. CHEAP THRILLS

10 UNDER $10

TO DO

Climb the Portland Observatory, the last remaining maritime signal tower in the US, for spectacular views across the city and Casco Bay. For high-tech, heart-pounding excitement, with music, fog, LED lighting, and special effects, play a game of laser tag at Spare Time Entertainment. Try a donut that Bon Appétit said was “alone worth the trip to Portland.” For the best selection, get to Holy Donut before noon. Gluten-free options too. Hop the ferry to Peaks Island, a 20-minute jaunt that will bring you to Portland’s commuter island where you can visit the irresistible Umbrella Cover Museum. Join Greater Portland Landmarks for walking tours of historic neighborhoods or learn about the prominent figures buried in Eastern Cemetery with Spirits Alive.

Ice skate on the outdoor rink at Thompson’s Point and stay toasty in their warming room and heated lounge. Snack and drink bars on-site. Sample a flyte of craft beers at Rising Tide, Lone Pine Brewing, or another of Portland’s hopping breweries. See the grid on pg. 35 for tasting room locations. Learn about Sasquatch, sea monsters, and more hidden or unknown animals at the world’s only International Cryptozoology Museum. Travel 3 miles roundtrip along Portland’s Eastern Promenade on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad. Stay and explore the museum’s train exhibits. Meet a moose (and other Maine wildlife that can’t be returned to their natural habitats) at Maine Wildlife Park in Gray.

FREE FAVES ART + ABOUT

On the first Friday of each month, Portland art galleries open their doors, and Congress Street is lined with performers and artists. SEAS THE DAY Take a dip or bring your kayak to East End Beach or Willard Beach. Make a day trip to Old Orchard Beach and chomp on Pier Fries. TAKE A HIKE Over 70 miles of trails in Greater Portland offer a variety of settings from woodland escapes to waterfront walks. LEAD YOURSELF Immerse yourself in architecture and history with self-guided walking tours. Download maps at greaterportlandlandmarks.org. GO FLY A KITE Scarborough’s Pine Point, South Portland’s Bug Light Park, and Cape Elizabeth’s Fort Williams Park are ideal for soaring good times. STARS UNDER THE STARS From July to September, L.L.Bean presents national headliner acts and local favorites at Discovery Park in downtown Freeport. A WALK IN THE PARK Deering Oaks and Payson Park both feature playgrounds. Deering Oaks also boasts rose gardens and a duck pond. SUMMER FILM FLING Enjoy free films outdoors at Congress Square Park on summer Sunday evenings and Bug Light Park on Thursday evenings in July. GO UNDERGROUND Find all 16 markers of the Portland Freedom Trail’s Underground Railroad to learn about Maine’s abolitionist movement. Self-guided walking tour maps: mainehistory.org.

Casco Bay Lines ferries are the lifeline between the mainland and the Calendar Island communities.

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