2016 Visitor's Guide

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There are so many ways to get out onto the sparkling waters of Casco Bay—come sea!

Photo: Convention & Visitors Bureau/Emily Dudek

PLAY ING Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or traveling with friends, we’ve got abundant options for creating fun-filled days and nights. You may run out of time but never things to do.

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The Portland art scene rivals that of cities much larger in size and features the world-renowned Portland Museum of Art, a resident symphony orchestra, numerous art galleries, and professional theatre. The region also boasts an impressive selection of venues in which to enjoy local and internationally-acclaimed musicians and performers. Greater Portland is also steeped in history and offers many ways to ex- plore the past such as guided walking and trolley tours. Maine Maritime Museum in Bath is devoted to the state’s rich maritime history, and the only active Shaker community in the world welcomes visitors to its New Gloucester farm. With our region’s

proximity to the sea, there are naturally plenty of things to do on and around the water, from narrated cruises to sunset schooner sails, exciting kayak excursions to lazy beach afternoons. But don’t miss the mountains with superb downhill skiing, plentiful wildlife, thrilling whitewater rafting, and fishing and swimming in crystal clear lakes. Golf enthusiasts will find numerous beautifully situated courses, either beside the ocean or amid the mountains. Maine is “The Great Out- doors,” so get out and enjoy it! There’s also plenty to keep the kids busy, from a new science center, to their own Children's Museum and Theatre, to wildlife and amusement parks, to the alluring world of antique

trains, planes, and trolleys; you can even ride the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad's Polar Express to the "North Pole" for a festive reenactment of the beloved children's book. Kids love building sand castles, splashing in the waves, and exploring the hidden worlds of tide pools along the rocky coast. And Portland is home to two professional sports teams so there will likely be a basketball or baseball game that will hit a home run with the family when you visit. The excitement peaks at fairs and festivals throughout the summer and fall; be sure to check the calendar listings on pages 48-50 for special events for you and your family to enjoy.

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