2023 Event Planner's Guide

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MEET IN MAINE

Once you hold a meeting in Maine, you’ll see why the state’s renown as a vacation destination is becoming matched by its reputation as a first-class meetings destination. Stunning natural beauty, rich culture and entertainment, exciting outdoor adventures, exceptional shopping, and extraordinary service all come together to create a magical place for your delegates to gather. And gather they will—the mystique of the country’s most northeastern state is in part responsible for the large attendance of meetings and events held in Maine. The quality of service you’ll experience here will ensure your event is one of the most successful ever.

By The Numbers

Total Meeting Space 115,000 Sq. Ft. Downtown Portland 150,000 Sq. Ft. Greater Portland 30,000 Sq. Ft. Mixed-Use Downtown Arena Hotel Rooms 2,089 in Downtown Portland 6,595 in Greater Portland Flights to Major Cities 90+ Daily Restaurants & Breweries 250+ in Greater Portland 1 Great Des t inat ion

WHAT THEY’RE SAY ING “Restaurant City of the Year” —Bon Appétit “Safest Cities in America” —WalletHub.com “Ten Coolest Cities” —Forbes “Cities for Culture & Outdoor Adventure” —Lonely Planet

CONTENTS

2-7 Our Free Services 8-17 Area Introduction 13-15 Festivals & Annual Events 17 Maine State Map 18-19 Downtown Portland Map 20 Transportation 22 Planner FAQs 23-30 Vendor Directory CAPACI T I ES + AMENI T I ES 31-36 Facilities & Restaurants 36 Exhibit Halls & Auditoriums 37-39 Accommodations 39 Outdoor Retreats with Lodging

40-48 Featured Properties 49 Index of Businesses

VISIT PORTLAND 1375 Congress Street, Portland, Maine 04102 (207) 772-4994 | (207) 874-9043 fax sales@visitportland.com , visitportland.com Group Mar ke t i ng con t ac t Abby Warren / ext. 227 | sales@visitportland.com

Online RFP available at visitportland.com/meetings

Pres i den t & CEO Lynn Tillotson / ext. 233 | ltillotson@visitportland.com Ed i t or + Ar t Di rec t or Amy Tolk / ext. 236 | atolk@visitportland.com Des i gn + Produc t i on Robert Witkowski / bCreative

ON THE COVER: Portland’s Waterfront by Peter G. Morneau Photography

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Maine Brews Cruise; Thomas Mitchell Peter G. Morneau, Summer Feet Cycling, Focus Photography

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FREE SERVICES

Gather in Maine Our goal is to provide you with the assistance you need to make your meeting in Maine well attended, successful, and enjoyable. And our services are completely free of charge for planners; check out how we can help! AT THE PRE - BOOKING STAGE • Overnight Accommodations & Function Space Availability • Bid Proposals & Assistance with Presentations • Site Inspections & Area Tours • MarketingMaterials for Event Promotion AT THE POST- BOOKING STAGE • Referrals to Industry Partners • Itinerary & Program Ideas • Images, Video, PR distribution for events open to the public • Delegate Gift Ideas • Visitor’s Guides and Maps for Attendees

Whatever your preference or budget, we can help you find the perfect facility in which to hold your meeting, convention, or event. Choose from sophisticated urban settings, elegant coastal resorts, rustic lakeside cabins, and charming bed and breakfasts. The listings and ads, starting on page 31, highlight the amenities of our accommodations and function facilities. Our Group Marketing staff can provide more information to help you choose an event location. Small or large, your group will enjoy traditional New England hospitality, with extraordinary attention to your meeting’s details. Visit Portland’s Group Marketing services are free for event and conference planners! Our team has the expertise and connections to help you plan one of the most memorable and experiential events or meetings you’ll ever hold. We’re the only point of contact you’ll need, from site inspections through attendance building.

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Thank you again for everything during WITS and showing all of us your amazing city. As I've raved [to everyone], I loved Portland .” —Monica Ortega, at Wanderful's Women In Travel Summit

SMALL-TOWN TAKEOVER Talk to our staff and learn how we accommodate groups of more than

500 by utilizing our larger conference hotels and Cross

Insurance Arena, all within walking distance of each other, in the city’s Arts District. Portland’s compact downtown and closely interwoven neighborhoods ensure you are always near the action or your next meeting. Groups have the convenience of large, flexible space within many distinctive off-site venue options to get your attendees out exploring the city and experiencing all that is unique to Southern Maine. Spread out and make it yours with a Small- Town Takeover! SEEING IS BELIEVING Interested in joining us on a Familiarization Tour? Contact someone from our team at visitportland.com/meetings/ plan-your-event/our- team. We’d love to show you around! KEEP CURRENT Sign up on meetinmaine.com to receive our bi-monthly e-newsletter directly in your inbox. Small town, large hospitality.

FOLLOW US @MEETINMAINE @MARRYINMAINE

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Graham Young, Ian Wagreich Photography; Rachel Epperly

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COMPETE IN ST YLE

Maine and sports—it's a natural fit. With its diversity of terrain and changing climate, Maine is fortunate to have an array of distinct, unique four-season sports activities. From the mountains to the sea, Maine sports venues have played host to youth, amateur, national, international, and professional-level sports; Maine has the space to hold large competitions and the services to ensure they run smoothly. Play in Maine Maine’s mountain trails are getting more mileage with a host of year-round events. In March, witness the most challenging sled dog race in the eastern United States as mushers compete in the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race 0f 2023. Experience the region’s rolling hills, open countryside, and charming coastal villages as a spectator at George Hincapie’s Gran Fondo Hincapie, Bangor. Touted by industry publications from around the globe as a top Bucket List Race, The Lobsterman Triathlon will visit the shores of Old Orchard Beach in September of 2023. Athletes from around the country will swim, bike, and run along Maine’s shores to compete and celebrate with a quintessential lobster bake following their finish line with high fives. And, for a second year in a row, this July, athletes will race to Augusta, ME for Ironman 70.3. This event features a downriver swim in the Kennebec River, 56 miles of rolling hills on the bike and a 13.1-mile run along the canopy tree-lined Kennebec River Rail Trail. Professional sport teams offer groups a great option while here for work or play. 2023 will be the Maine Mariners' 5th ECHL season at the Cross Insurance Arena. After being acquired by the Boston Celtics, the renamed Maine Celtics continue to bring G-League excitement to the Portland Expo, the oldest continually active arena in the country. The Portland Sea Dogs, affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, offers family-friendly entertainment at Hadlock Field. WE ' VE GOT PROS

“The Maine Sports Commission has been a tremendous asset for promoting the many wonderful events this great state has to offer.” —Seth Woodcock, University of Maine

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SAMPLING OF 2023 SPORTING EVENTS IN MAINE February Maine Pond Hockey Classic, Sidney U.S. Toboggan World Championships, Camden Somerset Snowfest, Skowhegan, Canaan, & Madison March Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races, Fort Kent WinterKids Downhill 24, Carrabassett Valley April Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race, Bangor PBA Playoffs, Bayside Bowl, Portland (April + July) May Rick’s Run, South Berwick Miles to Mills 5k, Travis Mills Foundation, Brunswick June All American Lighthouse Classic Baseball Tournament, Southern Maine Drive Fore Kids, Falmouth Gran FondoHincapie, Bangor Old Port Half Marathon, Portland Trek Across Maine, Brunswick July Adapted Maine Golf Tournament, Brunswick All American Summer Classic Baseball

July continued Ironman 70.3 Maine, Augusta Nordik Trail Festival, Presque Isle Tri for a Cure, South Portland August AJGA Golf Tournament, Carrabasset Valley SailMaine Regatta, Casco Bay TD Beach to Beacon 10k, Cape Elizabeth September Dempsey Challenge, Lewiston New England Parkinson’s Ride, Old Orchard Beach Pumpkinman Triathlon, South Berwick October Maine Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay, Portland + Falmouth Maine Ultimate Lobsterpot Tournament, South Portland North American Wife Carrying Championships, Newry November 10th Annual Veterans Day 5k, Wells Girls on the Run Maine 5k, Brunswick Maine Track Club Turkey Trot, Cape Elizabeth December Black Mountain of Maine Hill Climb, Rumford Millinocket Marathon & Half Marathon, Millinocket Santa Sunday, Newry

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Dave Cleveland, Pineland Farms; Corey Templeton

Tournament, Southern Maine Camden Classic Cup, Camden Carrabasset Backcountry Challenge, Carrabasset Valley Casco Bay Island SwimRun, Portland

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T I E THE KNOT

As they’re celebrating your marriage, your guests will fall in love with Maine. With breathtaking scenic views and an inherent allure, Maine is the perfect wedding backdrop in which to make memories to treasure for a lifetime. Marry in Maine. From barns to farms, lakeside resorts to mountaintop retreats, urban chic to coastal elegance, a Maine location can enhance your wedding with its stunning natural beauty. Maine is a wonderful wedding destination that will excite your guests, and one that they can easily incorporate into a longer vacation. Your wedding is one of the most special days of your life, and we want it to be perfect! Our seasoned staff provides personal assistance throughout the planning process and is your one stop connection to all the services you’ll need to create your magical wedding. If you want someone to take care of all the details for you, consider engaging one of the area’s excellent event planners; we can point you in the right direction there too.

LET US CONNECT YOU WI TH • Wedding Venues • Guest Accommodations • Rehearsal Dinner • Tent & Other Rentals • Photographers • Caterers • Visitor Literature • Maine-made Wedding Favors

• Printers • Entertainment • Florists • Transportation • Wedding Planners • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party • Honeymoon/Mini-moon

“

My fiancé and I are planning our wedding ourselves, so having Visit Portland reach out and do many of the vendor searches for us has been super helpful and a huge time-saver. Choosing the right Maine venue was really important to us—thank you for helping us find a venue with gorgeous waterfront scenery that is actually within our budget—

we're thrilled!” — Christine Reynolds-Lemieux

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MAKE IT SPECIAL, MAKE IT MAINE Bachelor or bachelorette parties, showers, mini-moon, and more—Maine is so close for many yet a world away from the ordinary. Create lasting memories of your pre-or post -wedding event by having it in Maine.

EMAIL US AT weddings@visitportland.com or visit us online marryinmaine.com

FOLLOW US @MARRYINMAINE

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Jamie Mercurio; emilie inc photography; Novae Film and Photo; Cuppa Photography; emilie inc photography

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CAST A WIDE NET

Our Region Within a 15-mile radius of Maine’s largest metropolitan hub, you’ll find a variety of landscapes and towns to explore. Both within and surrounding Portland, parks and preserves allow access to the tranquil natural beauty Maine is renowned for. WELCOME TO GREATER PORTLAND Your attendees can enjoy a stroll on a sandy beach or a team-building canoe trip through a salt marsh in Scarborough. Westbrook’s Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art venue, minutes from downtown Portland in a burgeoning arts and tech riverfront town. Grab an authentic lobster roll and photograph renowned Portland Head Light while watching surf crash upon Cape Elizabeth’s rocky coast. The state’s largest retail center is located in South Portland, near the airport and several hotel and conference centers. Freeport entices travelers to uncover fabulous finds, but your group can also experience active adventures with L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery School. BOTH REF INED AND RELAXED Portland is perched on a peninsula, jutting out into island- studded Casco Bay. Older architecture blends gracefully with the new as you stroll along the waterfront or the cobblestone streets of the Old Port section of town. Portland is easy to navigate by foot, taxi or bus. Small parks and squares dot the landscape, offering comfortable respite for urban explorers. Intriguing shops and cozy coffee and tea houses beckon to passersby. Harbor cruises, historic buildings, and galleries nestle along the working waterfront. On a stroll through the Old Port, you’ll hear the squall of gulls and the low moan of bell buoys as you watch fishermen unload their daily catch. Portland’s waterfront is still very much a working port, an integral part of the local economy. Underlying the latest tech, fashion, and culinary scene is a deep sense of continuity and natural authenticity. With sophisticated style and artistic sensibilities, Greater Portland is nevertheless unpretentious and welcoming.

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DINING • Lobster, Seafood & Clambakes • “Taste of Maine” Receptions • Local Microbreweries/Distilleries and Wineries • Culinary Tours • Wine Education & Pairings • Chef Classes • Farm- to-Table Dining • Michelin Star Restaurants ON & AROUND THE SEA • Harbor Cruises • Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddleboarding • Sunset Sailboat Charters • Lighthouse Museums • Windjammer Cruises • Fishing (Deep Sea & Fresh Water) • Lobstering Tours • Whale & Puffin Watching • Land & Sea Tours • Wine Sails

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • Art Museums & Galleries • Professional Dance, Theatre, Symphony & Opera • Local & National Musicians • Summer Music Theatre • Entertainers, Performers, Downeast Humorists • Art Walks

SHOPPER’S DELIGHT • Old Port Boutiques • Maine Made Gifts

PHOTO, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Kirsten Alana Photography; Ian Wagreich Photography; Tim Greenway; Cynthia Farr-Weinfeld

• Arts District Galleries & Shops • Freeport Outlets & Boutiques • L.L.Bean

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GO TO TOWN

Don’t be fooled by Portland’s size—you’ll find a diversity and sophistication of cultural, historic, and entertainment offerings typically encountered in much larger metro regions. Be sure to leave some free time on the itinerary for your attendees to experience and explore our sights and attractions. Experience Authentic Maine. Portland, the cultural hub of northern New England, is home to professional theater and dance troupes, a fabulous art museum, and its own opera company and symphony orchestra. Historic homes and maritime museums honor the past’s legacy and bestow an appreciation for how a long and fruitful association with the sea continues to shape the region today. And the region’s culinary scene continues to mushroom with multiple awards from the James Beard Foundation and recognition by Bon Appe'tit as the “Restaurant City of the Year.” Maine lobster continues to have a devoted following, and a lobster and clambake with all the fixings can add that extra excitement that your delegates will long be talking about. In addition to the freshest of seafood, a

smörgåsbord of culinary tastes is on offer in a wide variety of casual to elegant venues. Greater Portland’s microbrew movement is also thriving; locally brewed beer is served at most restaurants and pubs, and tour companies will drive you to safely sample drinks from Maine’s local breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Tours of every variety will give you a quick lay of the land. From informative trolley tours and culinary strolls to whale-watching and lobstering cruises, your group will have fun delving into the region's intriguing history and culture. A tour, by land or sea, will be the talk of the town; see listings starting on page 25. The heart of Vacationland is brimming with great food, great beer, great people, and great memories.” — Alexis Kelly, Fodor's, " Top places to go in USA & Canada in 2020" “

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HISTORICAL SITES • Transportation Museums • Museum Homes

ATTRACTIONS & AMUSEMENTS • Brewery & Distillery Tours • Lighthouse Photography Tours • Baseball, Basketball, & Hockey Teams • Parks & Wildlife Viewing • Group Art Experiences • Sightseeing Tours / Land & Sea • Casino Gaming • Scenic Railroad Tours • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens • Bowling • Portland Observatory • The Escape Room • Float Harder • The Axe Pit • Cooking Classes • Maine Brews Cruise • Virtual Golf

• Center for Maine History • Architectural Walking Tours • Fort Gorges • Maine Irish Heritage Center • Museum at Portland Head Light • Portland Observatory • Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse • Historic Island Tours OUTDOOR ADVENTURES • Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking • Whitewater Rafting • Golf • Moose Watching • Nature Walks • Ice Skating & Sleigh Rides • Snowshoeing • Skiing (Downhill & X-Country) • Bicycle Touring & Trail Riding • Challenge Course & Zip Line • Horseback Riding • L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Lauren Whitney, X-Golf Portland; Peter G. Mouneau; Jennifer Kerns; Dela Murphy

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INSP I RE YOUR CREW

Looking for a way to reward your valuable employees or host a memorable team building experience? With miles of breath taking coastal scenery, gorgeous inland vistas, and attentive hospitality staff, Maine is an ideal incentive destination. Adventure in Maine The Western Lakes and Mountains region offers superb Alpine skiing, snowmobiling and rafting, while most other outdoor activities are easily accessible in Greater Portland. You can canoe through the state’s largest salt marsh in Scarborough or take in a panoramic view of brilliant foliage on a fall hike up Bradbury Mountain in Pownal. Maine Audubon sanctuaries in Portland, Falmouth, and Freeport are the ideal place for bird watchers to roam, while golfers will find excellent links, both inland and oceanside. Biking and kayaking with experienced guides are two of the most popular outdoor activities that can be done as a group. Or you can don rubber gloves and haul traps with a Maine lobsterman. Elegant schooners will sail your party down the bay for a close-up view of forts and lighthouses. Try ice-fishing or whale-watching, or let L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Schools introduce you to archery, paddle-boarding, fly-fishing, or a host of other exciting activities. BUS INESS + LE I SURE Since Maine is one of the nation’s great outdoor playgrounds, you may want to combine your business meeting or convention with an exhilarating recreational outing. Or let your delegates discover their own adventure; just knowing what’s available to them is likely to make them more eager to attend your event.

“ We had a great conference in Portland, with attendance 20% above average! Attendees enjoyed all of the great restaurants and many came in early, or stayed after, to do day trips throughout Maine. It was truly a wonderful conference—Thank you for all your

assistance and suggestions. — Stacy Dodd, National Association of Secretaries of State

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ANNUAL EVENTS & FESTIVALS FEBRUARY Flavors of Freeport Enjoy samples from some of Maine’s best chefs and local brews and beverages at Specially-priced three-course meals celebrate Maine’s culinary scene from the South Coast to Maine’s Mid Coast. Maine Boatbuilder’s Show Portland’s gathering of the finest craftsmen & boatbuilders on the East Coast. The Maine Flower Show in Portland Displays by Maine’s best garden and landscape companies. JUNE Portland Wine Week Tasting events run the gamut from boojee to basic at Wine Wise's celebration of all things wine. Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor Fully rigged windjammers sail into the harbor. Concerts, antique boat parade, & fireworks. Maine Festival of American Music in New Gloucester Music by the Shakers & American composers at Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village. Greek Heritage Festival in Portland Greek foods, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. JULY Bar Harbor Music Festival Outstanding up and coming talent from jazz to new composers to a string the Ice Bar. MARCH Maine Restaurant Week Celebration includes a parade, races, games, entertainment & all the clams you can eat. AUGUST Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland New England’s fun festival where lobster is king. (Continued on page 15) orchestra at various venue s. Yarmouth Clam Festival

PHOTO, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Rippleeffect; Summer Feet Cycling; Ashley Flowers Yoga–Peter G. Morneau; Portland Paddle

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New England is fortunate to have four seasons that each brings its own distinct pleasures: crisp autumn days, winter’s frosty elegance, the new growth and brilliant floral hues of spring, and summer’s salty sea breezes. P ICK YOUR SEASON Year-round in Maine. Your delegates will want to take advantage of the seasonal flavors on tap when they’re here. Curling up by a winter’s fire, rafting during a spring high-water release, picking apples, sailing on the bay—there’s always something special to do to make the most of the time you’ve chosen to meet in Maine. Maine is a safe and comfortable destination where delegates often combine a family vacation with business travel. The skies fill with the sounds of outdoor concerts throughout the summer and into fall. Annual festivals celebrate everything from the bounty of autumn’s harvest to the delights of winter. When you hold your next meeting in Maine, you may run out of time, but never things to do! A VALUE PROPOS I T ION Meeting in Maine during the peak season can be a challenge for budget-conscious groups, but you can still have a budget-friendly meeting in the summer by choosing the right venue. Head to the mountains where ski resorts welcome groups at off-season rates and state parks are nearby. Or take over a college campus! When school’s out, you can enjoy the robust meeting and leisure space of several colleges near the ocean. Book a multi-functional arena or theatre for your peak season space and cheer at the savings. Winter and spring are the value seasons in Greater Portland; your budget will stretch further during these months. Not only are room rates lower but the region is filled with fine dining, sports, and an abundance of arts and entertainment. Enjoy live performances of professional theater, dance, the Portland Symphony, and headliner concerts—all of whose primary programming correspond with Portland’s value dates.

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AUGUST Portland Chamber Music Festival Internationally acclaimed artists perform a wide range of classical and contemporary chamber music. Art in The Park in South Portland Paintings & prints by artists from the entire Eastern Seaboard. Italian Street Festival in Portland Ethnic celebration featuring band music, children’s games & Italian food. SEPTEMBER Cumberland Fair Large agricultural fair with crafts. OCTOBER Freeport Fall Festival Over 100 artists will exhibit at this annual event. Harvest on the Harbor in Portland Food & Wine Festival celebrating Maine’s culinary arts. NOVEMBER Portland Beer Week A series of events to enhance knowledge and appreciation of the beer culture in Greater Portland. Thru Dec / Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens sparkle with the largest light display in Maine. ANNUAL EVENTS & FESTIVALS (Continued from page 13)

Thru Dec / Light Up Your Holidays in Portland Downtown is alive & merry with joy- filled celebration on its streets. Thru Dec / Polar Express in Portland Ride the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad to the North Pole. Christmas at Victoria Mansion: Historic home is lavishly decorated by area designers and florists for the holidays. DECEMBER Merry Madness in Portland Come downtown for a night of shopping and merriment. Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport Annual celebration with tree lighting, candlelight ceremony, caroling & crafts fairs. Sparkle Celebration in Freeport Parade, carol singing & horse-drawn carriage rides. Magic of Christmas in Portland Portland Symphony Orchestra presents its annual holiday concert series at Merrill Auditorium.

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Allie Wityak; Debra Ann Gorneault; JCG Photography

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STRETCH YOUR STAY

Your delegates may want to extend their stay in Maine with a variety of pre- and post-conference trips. Our team can suggest day trips or week-long outings—from the mountains to the sea, there’s so much to discover and many opportunities to turn a business trip into a real vacation. Popular Pre-/ Post-Conference Trips THEMED TR I PS There’s something for everyone in Maine! Art lovers can follow the Maine Art Museum Trail and immerse themselves in works of art from ancient to contemporary. If lighthouses set you aglow, you can seek out the more than 60 beacons that illuminate the craggy coast. Moose watching, whale watching, and other wildlife tours are also available in various regions throughout the state. SOUTH & MID-COASTAL MAINE Charming towns and villages dot the coast both south and north of Portland, boasting terrific art galleries, shops, and cruises. Enjoy forts and lighthouses, amusement parks and maritime museums, salt marshes and beaches. Freeport is home to wonderful shopping, and outdoor outfitter L.L.Bean is a destination unto itself. DOWNEAST MAINE & THE CANADIAN PROVINCES Acadia, Maine’s only national park, is located less than four hours northeast of Portland, near the resort town of Bar Harbor. Hiking trails and carriage paths offer spectacular views. On your way, visit the quaint villages of Boothbay Harbor, Rockport and Camden, boasting art galleries, shops and windjammer cruises. The CAT Ferry makes the trip from Bar Harbor to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in 3 1 / 2 hours, the perfect spot to begin exploring Canada’s ocean playground. MOUNTAINS & LAKES REGION Rustic cabins, camping, swimming, and boating in the clear waters of Maine’s lakes… if you love to be active outdoors, this is the region for you! Enjoy mountain biking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, whitewater rafting, cross-country or downhill skiing, and the wildlife of these unspoiled landscapes. The Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument invites discovery of northern Maine’s outdoor playground. Get a different kind of adrenalin rush as you try your luck at table games and slot machines at Oxford Casino, a mere 40 minutes from Portland.

PHOTOS FROM TOP: Deb Collins; Allen LaValle (2)

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The following resources offer information on leisure travel throughout all regions of Maine: Maine Office of Tourism (888) 624-6345 visitmaine.com Maine Tourism Association (207) 623-0363 mainetourism.com

MILES TO PORTLAND

Auburn/Lewiston. . . . 38 Augusta 56 Bangor . . . . . . . . . . 133 Bar Harbor. . . . . . . . 175 Bath. . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Bethel/Newry. . . . . . . 67 Boothbay Harbor . . . . 59 Brunswick. . . . . . . . . 26 Camden . . . . . . . . . . 81 Cape Elizabeth. . . . . . . 9 Carrabasset Valley. . 128 Casco/Naples . . . . . . 35 Cumberland. . . . . . . . 12 Falmouth. . . . . . . . . . . 7

Freeport . . . . . . . . . . 17 Gorham. . . . . . . . . . . 12 Gray. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Greenville . . . . . . . . 150 Hallowell. . . . . . . . . . 59 Kennebunkport . . . . . 29 Kittery. . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Millinocket. . . . . . . . 200 New Gloucester. . . . . 24 Newagen. . . . . . . . . . 63 North Conway, NH. . . 65 Northport. . . . . . . . . . 90 Ogunquit. . . . . . . . . . 35 Old Orchard Beach. . . 15

Owls Head. . . . . . . . . 83 Oxford. . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Poland Spring . . . . . . 30 Rangeley. . . . . . . . . 128 Rockland. . . . . . . . . . 79 Rockport. . . . . . . . . . 80 Saco. . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Scarborough. . . . . . . 10 Standish. . . . . . . . . . 20 The Forks . . . . . . . . 144 Westbrook. . . . . . . . . . 7 Windham. . . . . . . . . . 12 Yarmouth. . . . . . . . . . 11 York Beach/Harbor. . . 45

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ACCOMMODAT IONS – LOCATED ON THI S MAP

ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID

11 Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 12 Holiday Inn By the Bay 13 Homewood Suites by Hilton 14 Hyatt Place Portland Old Port 15 Portland Regency Hotel & Spa 16 Portland Sheraton at Sable Oaks 18 Ramada Plaza by Wyndham 19 Residence Inn Portland Downtown 20 Westin Portland Harborview 17 The Press Hotel

65 Commercial St

F9

1 AC Hotel Portland Waterfront

158 Fore St

F10 E5 B1 D4 E6 B5 E5 E9 C5 E10

88 Spring St

D5

2 Aloft Portland Maine

379 Commercial St

200 Southborough Dr, Scarborough A2

3 Best Western Merry Manor Inn

700 Main St, So. Portland

433 Fore St 20 Milk St

E7 E8 A3 D8 A8

4 Blind Tiger

163 Danforth St 25 Hancock St

5 Cambria Portland Downtown

200 Sable Oaks Dr, So. Portland

6 Canopy by Hiilton

9 Center St

119 Exchange St 155 Riverside St

7 Clarion Hotel

1230 Congress St 321 Commerical St 121 Middle St 747 Congress St

8 Courtyard by Marriott Downtown

145 Fore St 157 High St

E10

9 The Docent's Collection 10 The Francis Hotel & Spa

C6

TRAVEL WI TH EASE

Air access to Portland is excellent, averaging nearly 100 arrivals and departures daily from hub cities. Given its frequency of flights and convenient schedules, Portland offers attendees availability and service that cannot be matched by most destinations its size.

1-STOP CONNECTIONS TO OVER 200 CITIES WORLDWIDE

Portland

Minneapolis

New York Philadelphia

Newark Detroit

Chicago

Baltimore Washington, DC

Denver

For motorists traveling from northeast cities, access by auto is a breeze; Portland is situated adjacent to Interstate 95, just two hours north of Boston, and less than four hours from Hartford. Portland is also serviced by national and regional bus lines, offering numerous routes into the city. You can also ride the rails to Portland on the “Downeaster,” Amtrak’s passenger service between Boston and Brunswick. COMPACT AND CONVENI ENT. Once here, you will find it a city easy to navigate. The METRO bus system offers convenient public bus service from outlying regions to downtown as well as express service to Yarmouth, Freeport, and Brunswick. Casco Bay Lines connects passengers with the harbor’s Calendar Islands. Our team can also connect you with local motorcoach companies to provide a shuttle bus for your delegates and help you find parking for large city-wide conventions.

Raliegh

Charlotte

Atlanta

Dallas

Orlando

SCHEDULES & MORE

Air: portlandjetport.org Train: traintomaine.com

Bus: concordcoachlines.com Ferry: cascobaylines.com

Get to Maine. The Portland International Jetport is conveniently located just three miles from downtown Portland, and many hotels offer free shuttle service. Rental car, taxi, van and stretch limousine, and livery services are also available at the Jetport. Other nearby airports offer limousine, bus and van services as well.

PHOTOS: CFW Photography; Amy Tolk (2)

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PORTLAND’S NEIGHBORHOODS Arts District Greater Portland’s cultural epicenter encompasses an art school, world- renowned art museum, numerous galleries, professional theatre, and live performance venues. East Bayside This former industrial area is now exploding with breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, and other innovative businesses. East Bayside is definitely Portland’s new hot zone. East End The panoramic harbor views from the Eastern Prom cannot be matched else where in the city. Once a neglected neighborhood, the East End is on the rise and has become the hip area to live in Portland. The Observatory sits among a bevy of restaurants and small shops at the crown of Congress Street. Old Port/Waterfront Portland’s working waterfront is an attraction in and of itself. Renovated brick warehouses and tour boats line Commercial Street. Cruise ships dock daily in the fall. The Old Port is the heart of Portland’s shopping, dining, and nightlife scene. Parkside Taking its name from 55-acre Deering Oaks Park, this district is also home to the Portland Exposition Building, Troubh Ice Arena, University of Southern Maine, and Hadlock Field, home of the Portland Sea Dogs baseball team. Portland Foreside Revitalized 10-acre neighborhood along Portland’s historic eastern waterfront combining places to live, work, and play. Multi-phased development currently underway. Thompson’s Point Imaginative and dynamic, this newly developed waterfront district combines entertainment and conference facilities with an outdoor skating rink, a distillery, a brewery, and summer sunset events. West End Industrial-age mansions and Victorian- era architecture line the quiet streets of the city’s most elegant quarter. Enjoy a stroll along the Western Prom and dine in great restaurants favored by locals.

Tampa* Vero Beach*

COMMERCIAL AIRLINES SERVING PORTLAND • American Airlines

Washington /Dulles & Reagan *Seasonal non-stop service

• Delta Air Lines • Elite Airways • Frontier Airlines • JetBlue Airways • Southwest Airlines • Sun Country • United Airlines

OTHER AIRPORTS

Miles to Portland

Augusta Bangor

60 miles 130 miles

Bar Harbor 160 miles Logan (Boston) 100 miles Manchester (NH) 90 miles Pease (NH) 50 miles

NONSTOP FLIGHT CITIES Atlanta Baltimore Boston Charlotte Chicago/Midway & O’Hare Dallas* Denver* Detroit Fort Lauderdale* Ft. Myers* Miami* Minneapolis/St. Paul* Myrtle Beach* Nashville* Newark New York/JFK & LaGuardia Orlando Philadelphia Raleigh-Durham* St. Augustine*

FROMOTHER CITES

Approx Approx Miles Flt. Times

Atlanta

1220

3:30 1:30 0:30 2:30 5:00 6:20 0:60 1:15 6:30 3:30 1:40

Baltimore

520 100

Boston

Chicago

1095 1840 3265

Dallas London

New York

320 415

Philadelphia San Francisco

3250 1500

Tampa

Washington, D.C.

535

The Jetport offers easy connections from many other destinations.

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GOOD TO KNOW

Meeting Planner FAQs Q:WHAT GROUP S IZE CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE? A: The largest meeting space in Greater Portland is just over 35,000 sq ft. There is a combined available square footage of 155,000 sq ft from venues in downtown Portland. Q:CAN YOU HELP MARKET & BUI LD ATTENDANCE? A: Yes! We are happy to help market your event. We can post your meeting’s details to our Events Calendar and use our social media channels to help promote it. Additionally, we provide our printed marketing materials, high resolution destination images, and promotional videos. Q:DO YOU HAVE GIFT BAGS WITH LOCAL PRODUCTS? A: Our team can provide your guests with complimentary visitor guides. We are also happy to connect you with local makers that will work with you to craft Maine-made gifts for your swag bag. Q:WHEN I S PEAK SEASON? A: June-October is considered peak season for the Greater Portland region. For a more budget-friendly meeting, consider our region during the winter and shoulder seasons. (Nov/Dec & Apr/May) Our city is a vibrant meetings and events destination, year-round! Q:DO I NEED A MEET ING PLANNER? A: Our sales team can act as your local liaison while planning your event at no cost to you. From choosing the ideal venue to assisting with vendor referrals, our goal is to provide you with services to make your meeting a success.

Q:WHERE DO WE GET THE BEST LOBSTER? A: Maine Lobster is the sweetest, most flavorful lobster you can eat—hand-caught by local fishermen committed to sustainable fishing for generations. Many restaurants offer a variety of lobster dishes but all are made with the freshest of Maine’s most sought-after delicacy. Q:WHERE CAN I HAVE A LOBSTER BAKE? A: There are several ways you can host your own lobster bake for your group. You can bring in a local caterer to one of our unique venues, dine at one of Portland’s mouth-watering restaurants, or even take a scenic cruise on Casco Bay as you crack into those lobsters. A: Portland’s reputation as a foodie destination derives in part from the sheer number of high-quality restaurants in the area; the trouble will be in choosing where to dine from the many options! And in Portland, the cultural capital of northern New England, historic sites and visual/performance arts abound. Lots of outdoor adventures also await, both in town and at nearby lakes and mountains. Q: ARE THERE ENOUGH RESTAURANTS & ACT IVI T I ES TO ENTERTAIN ATTENDEES?

PHOTOS FROM LEFT: Wanderful/Women in Travel Summit; Rachel Epperly

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www.headlightav.com Inquiries: (207) 775-1671

Make An Ordinary Trip, EXTRAORDINARY

DIRECTORY LISTINGS

TRANSPORTATION Air, Bus, Van, Limousine & Charter Companies.................................. 25 ACTIVITIES Arts, Culture & History ....................................................................................... 25 Cruises, Charters & Tours................................................................................... 25 Team Building Recreation...................................................................................27 SERVICE VENDORS Audio Visual & Electrical Services............................................................... 28 Cannabis........................................................................................................................ 28 Catering & Lobsterbakes.................................................................................... 28 Decor, Florist & Rentals/Event Planning Services ........................... 28 Group Travel Services ........................................................................................ 29 Photographers & Videographers................................................................... 30 Promotional Items & Gifts................................................................................. 30 Special Services........................................................................................................ 30

[ Vendor Directory ]

We invite you to make an ordinary trip extraordinary, and enjoy affordable luxury travel without the worry. Maine Limousine Service specializes in corporate travel, airport transfers, weddings and all special occasions. Situated just minutes from the Portland International Jetport, Maine Limousine Service has been providing professional, reliable luxury transportation for Northern New England since 1987.

Toll Free: 800-646-0068 • Local: 207-883-0222 Online Reservations available at www.mainelimo.com Email inquires to info@mainelimo.com

Half page / full color / CMYK - 7.375 x 4.875

58 CULINARY

Proudly serving the best of Maine. Twelve • EVO Kitchen+Bar • Chebeague Island Inn Catering / Events

58CULINARY.COM

207-910-7300

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TRANSPORTATION

charters and more. Vehicles range from Deluxe 55 passenger Coaches, 41-44 passenger Activity Coaches, Mercedes Sprinter seating 14, Ford Flex seating 6. ADA accessibility, Wi-Fi, DVD, USB & luggage storage. Travel in style. ACTIVITIES ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY COASTAL MAINE BOTANICAL GARDENS 132 Botanical Gardens Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537 (207) 633-8000 info@mainegardens.org mainegardens.org Maine’s first, and New England’s largest, botanical garden provides the ultimate Group getaway! Whether your group is interested in taking an educational and inspirational field trip, offering the staff or board members the benefits of an off-site retreat, or just relaxing in a beautiful setting with friends, the Gardens provides an unmatched experience. Explore Portland’s history and see panoramic views at the Portland Observatory (1807), located at 138 Congress Street, America’s only historic maritime signal tower. Open seasonally, Memorial Day through Indigenous Peoples’ Day. MAINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY 489 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 774-1822 info@mainehistory.org mainehistory.org Visit. Explore. Discover. In Portland’s arts district. Tour the boyhood home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, America’s beloved 19th century poet (May-Oct). Our year-round museum of changing exhibits spans centuries of Maine life. Research family roots in our library. Purchase unique gifts. Rent our gracious venue for meetings, receptions and parties. GREATER PORTLAND LANDMARKS 93 High St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 774-5561 x104 info@portlandlandmarks.org portlandlandmarks.org Nationally renowned award-winning musicals and plays with professional casts from Broadway, TV and film. It is set in the charming seaside village of Ogunquit, has 668 seats and is handicapped accessible with assisted-listening devices for the hearing impaired. Guaranteed top-notch entertainment and a delightful experience. Private catered events available in outdoor tent. PORTLAND MUSEUMOF ART 7 Congress Square, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 775-6148 gknopp@portlandmuseum.org portlandmuseum.org By hosting an event at the Portland Museum of Art, you treat your guests to a distinct OGUNQUIT PLAYHOUSE 10 Main St, Route 1, Ogunquit, ME 03907 (207) 646-2402 x252 groups@ogunquitplayhouse.org ogunquitplayhouse.org

environment, rich with fine art and iconic architecture, while supporting the museum’s efforts to offer world-class exhibitions and educational programs to the Maine community and beyond.

[ Vendor Directory ]

AIR, BUS, VAN LIMO & CHARTER COMPANIES CUSTOM COACH AND LIMOUSINE 19 Bartlett Road, Gorham, ME 04038 (207) 797-9100 info@customcoachandlimo.com customcoachandlimo.com

PORTLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 85 Exchange St, 4th Floor Portland, ME 04101 (207) 842-0800 psobox@portlandsymphony.org portlandsymphony.org

In its 98th season, the Portland Symphony is a fully professional orchestra that is recognized as one of the top of its size in the country. The PSO performs a wide variety of classical, popular, kid-friendly, and holiday concerts at the historic Merrill Auditorium in the arts district. Groups receive ticket discounts & personalized assistance.

We are a family business and have earned a reputation for consistently providing the finest in transportation service since 1988. Providing multiple vehicles for 1 to 57 passengers. Whether it be for group, individual or business travel, weddings or any other event, Custom Coach has what you need. “You’ll get accustomed to Custom.” MAINE LIMOUSINE SERVICE 70 Pleasant Hill Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074 (207) 883-0222 info@mainelimo.com mainelimo.com Professional, knowledgeable, uniformed chauffeurs will escort you to any destination. Our fleet of immaculate, late model vehicles includes sedans, SUVs, limousines, Sprinters, executive shuttle bus, and a 1962 Bentley. Specializing in corporate and leisure travel, airport transfers, weddings, sightseeing and all special occasions. Online reservations available. See ad pg. 24

SOUTHWORTH PLANETARIUM 70 Falmouth St, Portland, ME 04103 (207) 780-4249 edward.herrickgleason@maine.edu usm.maine.edu/planet

Portland’s space & science place! Explore galaxies, atoms, cells & the sea in our subterranean star dome. Available for group shows throughout the day. You may schedule your group showings for times other than those listed in our schedule. We offer shows to school groups, birthday parties, and business organizations. We’ve even done weddings! CRUISES, CHARTERS & TOURS BLUEFIN TUNA ADVENTURES Portland Yacht Services, West Commerical St, Portland, ME 04101 (808) 264-2356 fish@catchblufin.com catchbluefin.com Our fishing and scenic charters are the most comfortable around with a full gallery kitchen, BBQ, indoor dining table, full bathroom with shower, spacious fly bridge, sound system, AC and 3 sleeping rooms. Join us on the most comfortable private charter boat around! CASCO BAY CUSTOM CHARTERS Berth: South Port Marine, 14 Ocean St, South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 205-5796 contact@cascobaycustomcharters.com cascobaycustomcharters.com Give your group the authentic Maine experience they are looking for aboard our vintage wooden vessels. We specialize in private, guided charters for groups up to 24. Offerings include sightseeing and sunset charters, island transportation, and catered lunch or dinner excursions. Perfect for wedding parties, corporate groups, family events, and more!

NORTHEAST CHARTER & TOUR CO. 235 Goddard Rd, Lewiston, ME 04240 (207) 784-3159 ksullivan@gonect.com gonect.com

The perfect solution for any and all of your group transportation needs. From single-day trips to week-long adventures, we have the perfect charter vehicles for you. With Maine’s largest motorcoach fleet, and more, we will get you and your group to your destinations safely and on time. Contact us today!

PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL JETPORT 1001 Westbrook St, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 874-8877 pwmadmin@portlandmaine.gov portlandjetport.org

The Jetport offers travelers easy access off of the Maine Turnpike, easy parking across the street from the terminal and great airlines offering low airfares. Convenient location, convenient terminal and great airfares make Portland a great choice, and one of New England’s fastest growing airports.

VIP TOUR & CHARTER BUS CO. 129 Fox St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 772-4457 vip@vipchartercoaches.com vipchartercoaches.com

Transportation services include weddings, shuttles, corporate & sporting events, school trips, shopping excursions, multi-day tours, private

continued on page 26

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CASCO BAY LINES PO Box 4656, Portland, ME 04112 Berth: 56 Commercial St, Portland (207) 774-7871 x105 caityb@cascobaylines.com cascobaylines.com

MAINE DUCK TOURS PO Box 15078, Portland, ME 04112 Tickets online & The Blue Lobster Gifts (207) 774-3825 info@maineducks.com maineducktours.com

PORTLAND SCHOONER CO. PO Box 210, Portland, ME 04112 Berth: Maine State Pier & Ocean Gateway Pier (207) 766-2500 scott@portlandschooner.com portlandschooner.com Step aboard the extraordinary and experience classic Maine while sailing on one of our historic Maine-built windjammers. Our schooners provide the perfect vantage point to enjoy Maine’s most beautiful sights and sounds. Corporate events, lobster bakes, weddings, + more for groups of 2-120 people. Private charters + public sails available. See ad pg. 27 THE SCENIC ROUTE MAINE TOURS Outside Cruise Ship Terminal, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 518-3342 thescenicroutemetours@gmail.com thescenicroutemainetours.com Offering guests private tours and excursions for cruise ship passengers, we are your premier tour company. We prove that excellent value, combined with quality info are a great mix. Using 15 passenger vans, small group style allows for more interaction and great service. SEAPORTLAND Custom House Wharf, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 200-9111 info@seaportland.com seaportland.com Offering group tours, retreats, and activities on the waters and islands of Casco Bay. SeaPortland provides full-service event planning, catering (including liquor), access to a pair of passenger vessels, plus an extensive list of local partners to make creating memorable events easy.

Celebrations and events are always more fun on a boat! Charter a private vessel for your group and cruise around Casco Bay or to an island, with plenty of room for food and entertainment on the way. Or enjoy one of many specialty cruises departing daily from the Portland terminal. FOGG’S WATER TAXI & CHARTERS 72 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 415-8493 reservations@foggswatertaxi.com foggswatertaxi.com Explore Casco Bay on a private or public charter from our custom built fleet of boats. Our fleet includes boats that can carry up to 6 or 49 passengers. Located on the Maine Wharf, directly across the way from the Casco Bay Ferry terminals, we are the perfect way to explore Casco Bay. LIGHTHOUSE BIKES 72 Ocean St, South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 200-0900 lighthousebikesmaine@gmail.com lighthousebikesportland.com Come for a guided bicycle tour highlighting the cultural and natural history of the Maine coast- or explore the region at your own pace on a well tuned bike. Small or large groups are welcome. We are located two blocks from a paved bike path that connects area lighthouses and beaches. MAINE BREWS CRUISE mail to: 1053 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04103 (207) 200-9111 Driving You to Drink Local since 2021. Providing educational-focused private and corporate all-inclusive tours to locally-owned breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Many additional attractions, activities, and dining options can be incorporated into your customized event. Our Group Sales Coordinator will work with you to plan an unforgettable experience for your group! maine@brewscruise.com brewscruise.com/maine

Fun for all ages aboard a modern amphibious vehicle. Learn about places of interest to visit and many little known facts. We’ll tell you about the legends and lore that have shaped Portland into one of the most historical cities in the nation. MAINE NARROWGAUGE RAILROAD COMPANY & MUSEUM 49 Thames St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 828-0814 info@mainenarrowgauge.org mainenarrowgauge.org/private-train-charter/# Charter the train for your next business event or social gathering! The whole train, or individual train cars, can be rented for private groups. Food and non-alcoholic beverages may be served! Liquor license required for adult beverages. We can accommodate most any size group and are handicap-accessible. Delight your group with unforgettable storytelling they’ll hear no place else! We can wind through Portland on private walking tours discovering the city’s best landmarks and most potent hidden history, or we can come to you, hopping on your bus or visiting your event to offer a personalized history talk. PORTLAND DISCOVERY LAND & SEA TOURS PO Box 68, Portland, ME 04112 (207) 774-0808 info@portlanddiscovery.com portlanddiscovery.com Narrated trolley tours and lighthouse cruises are a great way to maximize your Maine experience. Charter a trolley for a private tour or transportation. Boats available for cocktail cruises, lobster bakes on the bay, island transportation, and our very popular sunset lighthouse cruise. See the best of Portland with us! PORTLAND BY THE FOOT PO Box 784, Portland, ME 04104 (207) 200-5885 dugan@portlandbythefoot.com portlandbythefoot.com

[ Vendor Directory ]

SUMMER FEET CYCLING ADVENTURES PO Box 10822, Portland, ME 04104 pickup at Ocean Gateway Visitor Center (207) 232-9415 info@summerfeet.net summerfeet.net

We are happy to run private bike tours and to create custom itineraries for groups of eight or more people. See Portland the active way on a bicycle! Our half-day 5-Lighthouse Tour is perfect for anyone with a sense of adventure. Bike and Brew and longer tours available.

MAINE DAY VENTURES PO Box 1905, Portland, ME 04101 Tickets sold at Vervacious (207) 233-7485 info@mainedayventures.com mainedayventures.com

WINE WISE (207) 619-4630 erica.archer@winewiseevents.com winewiseevents.com/custom

PORTLAND EXPLORER TOURS PO Box 11525, Portland, ME 04104 (207) 835-4950 info@portlandexplorer.me portlandexplorer.me

A “must-do activity in Portland, Maine.” Bring your group to join Sommelier Erica Archer for a highly-rated wine sail in Casco Bay—enjoying fine wines and views of Maine lighthouses, waterways, and islands…all while indulging in a wine class. It will be a highlight of your visit.

Join Maine’s premier walking tour company for interactive, educational and entertaining tours for locals and visitors alike. We showcase Maine’s culinary scene and colorful history on both land and sea. We also operate seasonally in Kennebunkport, Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor. Let us help create your unique private or corporate event year-round! See ad pg. 27

Premier tour company along the coast offering unforgettable explorations year round. Portland Explorer offers leisurely, corporate, private, and customized tours. We will be happy to charter your day whether it be a corporate outing, class reunion, shopping day with friends, bachelorette or bachelor party, and family reunion.

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