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Perched on Casco Bay, Greater Portland offers up everything you’d expect from the Maine coast… …plus a whole lot more! Maine’s largest metropolitan area leads “Top Places” and “Best Of” lists for vacation destinations in the U.S., and even worldwide. Greater Portland’s vibrant culture, exceptional shopping, gourmet cuisine, and out- door recreation are only matched by its breathtaking natural surroundings. Ferries and festivals. Mansions and microbrews. Art walks and wine talks. It seems impossible that a single seaside city could offer so much. And yet, the Greater Portland Region is a tribute to diversity in a city of contrasts—where high-tech companies innovate in historic landmarks, and laptop millenials start their day sharing coffee with lobstermen. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “City by the Sea,” once a trading and fishing settlement, has expanded into a thriving metro area, maintaining much of its 19th-century architecture, landmarks, and adventurous spirit. New Mainers—immigrants and refugees from Africa, Eastern Europe, and South- east Asia, as well as transplants from throughout the US—are infusing Greater Portland with fresh perspectives, and the best aspects of their cultures. Portland offers some of the most accessible access to neighboring islands (just a ferry ride away), historic forts, and lighthouses in all of Maine. Portland’s waterfront is still very much a working port, an integral and thriving part of the local economy, as well as a lively mixture of rich nightlife and cutting-edge cuisine. Greater Portland is unique as a major cultural center that equally embraces its natural environment. Plentiful parks and nature preserves are quick connections to tranquility and beauty within the state’s largest urban center. Whether you’re out for a day of shopping, visiting museums and galleries, or touring historic sites, you’re never far from places of pure, scenic beauty; it’s one of the reasons we say Portland is “Authentic By Nature.” These are some of the top things that come to mind when people think of Maine. LIGHTHOUSES, LOBSTERS & L.L.BEAN

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: FILE PHOTO; CYNTHIA FARR-WEINFELD; MAINE FOODIE TOURS

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