2017 Visitor's Guide

CRASHING ON THE ROCKY SHORE…

Theseare the enduring images that come to mind when people think of the classic Maine coast. Here, in Greater Portland, you'll absolutely experience the quintessential Maine coast… …plus a whole lot more! Maine's largest metropolitan area is listed time and again at the top of best places to vacation from amid destinations in the northeast, the United States, and even worldwide. Greater Portland hosts a vibrant arts scene, exceptional shopping, gourmet cuisine, and fabulous outdoor recreation, all set amidst a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Back coves and portholes. Ferries and festivals. Mansions and microbrews. It seems impossible that a single seaside city could offer so much. And yet, the Greater Portland region is a tribute to diversity and Portland a city of contrasts. Modern buildings brush sleeves with Victorian neighborhoods and young professionals and old salts nod to each other over their morning coffee. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s "City by the Sea,” once a trading and fishing settlement, has maintained much of its 19th century architecture, landmarks, and flavor, and its adventurous spirit is now woven into the region’s fabric. You’ll see evidence of it in its historic homes and, on closer inspection, within its lauded museums, independent art studios, and galleries. Jutting out into island-studded Casco Bay, Portland offers some of the best water access to neighboring islands, 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. Go 10 or 15 minutes in any direction and you'll be surprised you're anywhere near Maine's largest metropolitan area. Set like a jewel in the crown of Casco Bay, Portland is unique in its position as a major cultural center that equally embraces its natural environment. Both surrounding and within Portland, parks and preserves allow access to the tranquil natural beauty that Maine is renowned for. Our neighboring communities invite visitors to feel a part of the warp and weave of local life. 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 call Portland "Authentic By Nature."

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: VISIT PORTLAND/ROBERT WITKOWSKI; WOODS WHEATC ROFT; LOBSTER SHACK AT TWO LIGHTS; CFW PHOTOGRAPHY

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