2024 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 Top Spot to Visit

WORD IS OUT

“Coolest Small Cities in the U.S.” —Thrillist Travel “Best Pace to Live on the East Coast” —U.S. News and World Report “Cities for Culture & Outdoor Adventure” —Lonely Planet “Best East Coast Bachelorette Party Destinations” —Brides

CONTENTS

2-7

Our Free Services Area Introduction Annual Events Transportation Planner FAQs Maine State Map

8-17

13-15 Festivals &

18 21 23

24-25 Downtown Portland Map 27-33 Vendor Directory

CAPACITIES + AMENITIES 33 Exhibit Halls & Auditoriums 34-39 Facilities & Restaurants 40-43 Accommodations 43 Outdoor Retreats with Lodging

44-52 Featured Properties 53 Index of Businesses

VISIT PORTLAND 1375 Congress Street, Portland, Maine 04102 (207) 772-4994 | (207) 874-9043 fax sales@visitportland.com , visitportland.com Group Marketing contact Abby Traver / ext. 227 | sales@visitportland.com

Online RFP available at visitportland.com/meetings

President & CEO Lynn Tillotson / ext. 233 | ltillotson@visitportland.com Editor + Art Director Amy Tolk / ext. 236 | atolk@visitportland.com Design + Production bCreative

ON THE COVER: Portland Head Light Sunrise by Eric Storm

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Katie Gardner / Ballast; Amy Tolk Corey Templeton; Maine Day Ventures; Ian Wagreich 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!

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 33, 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. EXPERIENCE OUR Big-Meetings Appeal, Small Town Feel

AT THE PRE-BOOKING STAGE

• Overnight Accommodations & Function Space Availability • Bid Proposals & Assistance with Presentations • Site Inspections & Area Tours • Marketing Materials 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

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SMALL-TOWN TAKEOVER Talk to our staff and learn how we accommodate groups of more than suggesting locations for our conference.” — Megan Webster University of WI Center for Cooperatives 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. We had excellent assistance from Visit Portland—they remained conscious of our budget and capacity when 500 by utilizing our larger conference hotels and Cross

FOLLOW US @MEETINMAINE @MARRYINMAINE

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Focus Photography; Ian Wagreich Photography Greg Premru/Canopy Hotel

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COMPETE IN STYLE

Maine and sports—it’s a natural fit. With its diversity of terrain and climate, Maine is fortunate to have an array of 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 Year-round, events make use of Maine’s mountain trails. This March, in addition to the annual Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race, the Fort Kent Outdoor Center will also host the 2024 US Biathlon National Championships. And XTERRA is bringing athletes from around the globe to Sugarloaf for their Trail Run World Championship in September. The Bangor waterfront sets the stage for the Gran Fondo Hincapie Bangor; scenic course lengths are mapped out from the Maine Highlands through Downeast, culminating in a family friendly festival. Since 2017, Firecracker Sports has hosted the All American Lighthouse Classic baseball tournament now welcoming over 100 teams every June; last year they added a second tournament and there’s now talk of a third! In July Maine again welcomes Ironman 70.3 triathletes from around the nation and Canada to swim the Kennebec River, then cycle and run the rolling hills around Augusta. Thompson’s Point has been chosen by Maximum Cheer and Dance for their MaXout competition projected to bring 1200 athletes and fans to Portland in February. The National Collegiate Roller Hockey Association selected Auburn as the site for their 2024 National Championship where 60+ teams will compete in April. As summer begins, the inaugural Maine’s High Peaks Paddlefest will be held in the Rangeley Lakes region, a special spot for water enthusiasts. Maine is emerging as a top “go to” place for hosting memorable sports and recreation events—participants rate their experiences high as well as an inspiration to return. CHEERING OUR NEW EVENTS

“While we will be new to the state, we already know how fantastic and supportive the people in Maine are.” — Pete Graham, Maximum Cheer

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SAMPLING OF 2024 SPORTING EVENTS IN MAINE February

July continued Ironman 70.3 Maine, Augusta Nordik Trail Festival, Presque Isle Tough Mountain Challenge, Sunday River, Newry Tri for a Cure, South Portland August AJGA Golf Tournament, Carrabasset Valley SailMaine Regatta, Casco Bay TD Beach to Beacon 10k, Cape Elizabeth XTERRA Trail Run, Carrabasset Valley September Dempsey Challenge, Lewiston PBA Playoffs, Bayside Bowl, Portland New England Parkinson’s Ride, OO Beach Pumpkinman Triathlon, South Berwick October Maine Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay, Portland + Falmouth Maine Ultimate Tournament, So. Portland North American Wife Carrying Championships, Sunday River, Newry November 12th 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 Santa Sunday, Newry

Maine Pond Hockey Classic, Sidney MaXout Cheer + Dance, Portland

U.S. Toboggan World Championships, Camden Somerset SnowFest, Skowhegan & Madison March Sled Dog Races, Fort Kent WinterKids Downhill 24, Carrabassett Valley April Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race, Bangor Millinockeclipse, Millinocket Nat’l Collegiate Roller Hockey Association Championship, Auburn May Maine Coast Marathon, Wells Maine’s High Peaks Alliance, Rangeley Miles to Mills 5k, Brunswick Polar Bear Triathlon, Brunswick Rick’s Run, South Berwick June Gran Fondo Hincapie, Bangor Old Port Half Marathon, Portland Trail Festival, New Gloucester Trek Across Maine, Brunswick Sebago Lake Triathlon July Adapted Maine Golf Tournament, Brunswick All American Summer Classic Baseball

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Color Run/Flo-Foto; Courtesy Maine Sports Commission (2)

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

For assistance bringing your event to Maine: mainesportscommission.com

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TIE 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 WITH • 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

“

Many of our guests came from out of state, so we wanted to find a venue that really showcased Maine’s beauty. We found the perfect venue on the water, hosted an authentic Maine lobster bake, and our guests had a blast. Thanks for your help!” — Jeanette Wilson

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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 LEFT: MK Wreler Photography;

Stacy Kane Photography/Churchill Events; Lauren Sophia Photography/Maine Irish Heritage Center; Chris Bennett Photography/ Cunningham Farm; Rachel Epperly

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GET OUT OF TOWN

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. 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. 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. WELCOME TO GREATER PORTLAND BOTH REFINED AND RELAXED

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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: Amy Tolk; Capshore Photography (2); Tim Greenway

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

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DRINK IT ALL IN

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. Maine. From a convenient airport, to land and sea activities, and an abundance of great restaurants, Portland had everything we were looking for.” — Andrew Dlolian, MKTG Sports + Entertainment “ Very few of our 175 employees get the opportunity to visit beautiful coastal

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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 & Crafting 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 / Fort Scammel • 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 • Horseback Riding • L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Maine Oyster Company; Craig Becker Studios/Moss Galleries; Capshore Photography; Amy Tolk

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INSPIRE 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.

BUSINESS + LEISURE

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.

BOOST ATTENDANCE! Meet in a Bucket-List Destination…MAINE!

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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: CFW Photography; Maine Brews Cruise; New England Outdoor Center; Forest Carbon Works, courtesy Vermont Flannel Co.; Amy Tolk

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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. PICK 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! 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. A VALUE PROPOSITION

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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 LEFT: Wine Wise Events; Maine Office of Tourism; Sunday River

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LINGER IN MAINE

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 TRIPS 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.

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GO CAR FREE It’s easy to explore Greater Portland without a car. Trolleys offer narrated tours, and boats are lined up along Commercial Street ready to take you out on the bay. You can get between the Portland Transportation Center (train and bus), the Portland Jetport, The Maine Mall, and up to Freeport on the METRO bus, and the Amtrak Downeaster gets you north to Freeport and Brunswick and south to Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Wells without the hassle of driving and parking. Several tour companies will customize an itinerary for a half to several days and take you where you most want to go. So don’t hesitate to extend your visit if you arrive without a car—Maine awaits.

STAY ONE MORE DAY Just off the coast of Portland, several Islands await your discovery. Hop a Casco Bay Lines ferry for an overnight stay on Peaks, Chebeague, or Great Diamond and enjoy the serenity of island life for a spell. As you relax in Adirondack chairs, you’ll find it hard to believe you’re only 30 minutes to an hour away from Maine’s largest city.

“Our delegates enjoyed Portland and all it has to offer! Many of them took the opportunity to stay longer and experience the wide range of adventures available in the mountains and on the trails, rivers and lakes beyond the city boundaries.” — Russell Walters, Adventure Travel Trade Assocation

PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Amy Tolk; Alan LaValle; Tim Greeway; Capshore Photography/The Wanderer Cottages

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TRAVEL WITH 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. 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.

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. 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. COMPACT AND CONVENIENT.

SCHEDULES & MORE

Air: portlandjetport.org Train: amtrakdowneaster.com

Bus: concordcoachlines.com Ferry: cascobaylines.com

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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 Washington /Dulles & Reagan *Seasonal non-stop service

COMMERCIAL AIRLINES SERVING PORTLAND

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

OTHER AIRPORTS Miles to Portland Augusta

60 miles 130 miles

Bangor

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

NONSTOP FLIGHT CITIES Atlanta Baltimore Charleston Charlotte Chicago/Midway* & O’Hare Dallas* Denver* Detroit Ft. Myers* Miami* Minneapolis*/St. Paul* Nashville Newark New York/JFK & LaGuardia

FROM OTHER CITES

Approx Times

Approx MilesFlt.

Atlanta

1220

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

Baltimore Chicago

520

1095 1840 3265 1200

Dallas London

Nashville New York

320 415

Philadelphia San Francisco

3250 1500

Norfolk* Orlando Philadelphia Pittsburgh* Raleigh-Durham*

Tampa

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: Courtesy NNEPRA/The Downeaster; CFW Photography (2); Amy Tolk

Washington, D.C.

535

The Jetport offers easy connections from many other destinations.

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GET A CLUE

Meeting Planner FAQs Q:WHAT GROUP SIZE 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 & BUILD 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 IS 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: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.

Q:DO I NEED A MEETING 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: WHAT MAKES MAINE SO MEMORABLE FOR ATTENDEES? A: Maine is a bucket list destination for people from all over the country—when they can travel here as part of a business or social event, they are usually determined to return again and again. And, of course, the sweetest, most flavorful lob ster, hand-caught by local fishermen, is one of Maine’s most sought-after delicacies so you can make your meeting more memorable by including an authentic lobster bake or putting it on a banquet menu. 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 & ACTIVITIES TO ENTERTAIN ATTENDEES?

PHOTOS FROM LEFT: Rachel Epperly / Maine Craft Distilling; Amy Tolk

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Your first choice for safe, efficient, reliable & comfortable transportation, tours & related travel services. NOW PART OF THE CONWAY SCENIC RAILROAD FAMILY! VIP T our & C harTer B us C omPany

Wedding Shuttles Corporate Events School Trips Sporting Events

Convention Shuttles Shopping Excursions Private Charters Preplanned Tours Multi-day Tours Senior Trips Airport &Hotel Shuttles

A modern fleet of vehicles, accommodating 6 to 55 passengers, with wheelchair accessibility, Wi-Fi, Restroom, Luggage Storage, DVD monitors, Seatbelts and USB Outlets. V I P 129-137 Fox St., Portland, ME 04101 (ph) 207-772-4457 (f) 207-772-7020 www.vipchartercoaches.com vip@vipchartercoaches.com

Maine’s Home Airport.

AT A GLANCE

NON-STOP DESTINATIONS

NON-STOP SERVICE

*Seasonal Service

Atlanta Baltimore/Washington

Charlotte Charleston

Portland

Minneapolis/St. Paul

*

Chicago O’Hare Chicago Midway

Newark/New York City New York/JFK New York Islip New York/LaGuardia

Chicago (O’Hare)

* *

Dallas

Detroit

Philadelphia

Chicago (Midway)

Detroit Denver

Pittsburgh

Baltimore

Washington DC (Dulles)

Washington DC (Reagan)

Denver

*

Fort Myers

Norfolk

* *

Miami

Raleigh-Durham

*

Minneapolis/St. Paul

Nashville

Charlotte

Nashville

Atlanta

Charleston

Newark/New York City

* *

New York/JFK New York Islip

Dallas

New York/LaGuardia Norfolk

*

Orlando

Tampa

Orlando

Fort Myers

Philadelphia

Miami

Pittsburgh

* *

Raleigh-Durham

Seasonal Flights

Tampa

Washington Dulles Washington Reagan

LEADER IN SUSTAINABILITY

PWM is the first airport in the United States to use 100% Recycled Aircraft De-Icing Fluid. By capturing sprayed de-icing fluid and processing it to be used again, PWM is no longer trucking de-icing fluid in from offsite. PWM was the second commercial airport in the U.S. to attain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification from the U.S> Green Building Council PWM has a solar array on the top level of the parking garage. Over a 12 month period to array produces enough electricity to power the entire parking garage operation.

Visit Portlandjetport.org for more information.

DAILY NON-STOP FLIGHTS TO CITIES INCLUDING

NEW YORK CITY DC/BALTIMORE

CHICAGO

ATLANTA

DETROIT

CHARLOTTE

PHILADELPHIA

BOSTON

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

OwlsHead.. . . . . . . . 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

KEY

HOSPITAL AIRPORT BUS STATION

ACCOMMODATIONS INFO CENTER PARKING

OLD PORT DISTRICT ARTS DISTRICT

H

P ?

ACCOMMODATIONS – LOCATED ON THIS MAP

ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID

1 AC Hotel Portland Waterfront 158 Fore St

10 The Docent's Collection 11 Embassy Suites by Hilton 12 Fireside Inn & Suites 13 Hampton Inn & Suites Portland West 14 Hampton Inn Downtown 15 Hilton Garden Inn Airport

20 La Quinta Inn & Suites

F10

121 Middle St

E9 A5 A8 A8 E9 A5 F9 D5 A2

340 Park Ave

B5 C5 A8 E7 E8 A3

21 Longfellow Hotel

2 Aloft Portland Maine

379 Commercial St

E5

1050 Westbrook St

754 Congress St

3 Best Western

22 Motel 6

700 Main St, So. Portland B1

81 Riverside St

1 Riverside St 468 Fore St

Merry Manor Inn

23 Portland Harbor Hotel

1210 Brighton Ave

4 Blind Tiger

163 Danforth St

D4

24 Portland Regency Hotel & Spa 20 Milk St

5 Cambria Portland Downtown 25 Hancock St

E10

209 Fore St

25 Portland Sheraton

200 Sable Oaks Dr,

6 Canopy by Hiilton 7 Casco Bay Hotel

9 Center St

E6 A2

145 Jetport Blvd

at Sable Oaks

So. Portland

16 Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 65 Commercial St

26 The Press Hotel

80 John Roberts Rd,

119 Exchange St 155 Riverside St

D8 A8

So. Portland

17 Holiday Inn By the Bay 18 Homewood Suites by Hilton

27 Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

88 Spring St

8 Clarion Hotel

1230 Congress St 321 Commerical St

B5 E5

28 Residence Inn

200 Southborough Dr,

145 Fore St

E10

9 Courtyard by Marriott

Scarborough 19 Hyatt Place Portland Old Port 433 Fore St

Portland Downtown 29 Westin Portland Harborview

Downtown

E7

157 High St

C6

Make An Ordinary Trip, EXTRAORDINARY

DIRECTORY LISTINGS

TRANSPORTATION Air & Train Travel......................................................................................................27 Bus, Van, Limo & Charter Companies........................................................ 27 ACTIVITIES Arts, Culture & History ....................................................................................... 27 Cruises, Charters & Tours.....................................................................................27 Team Building Recreation..................................................................................29 CONVENTION SERVICES Audio Visual & Electrical Services................................................................ 31 Cannabis.........................................................................................................................31 Catering & Lobsterbakes..................................................................................... 31 Decor, Florist & Rentals/Event Planning Services ............................ 32 Group Travel Services ......................................................................................... 32 Photographers........................................................................................................... 32 Promotional Items & Gifts................................................................................. 32 Special Services........................................................................................................ 33

[ 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

private charters two-hour sails special events

Sailing four times daily.

A historic venue located in the heart of the Old Port. The perfect backdrop for weddings, private dinners, corporate meetings, and more.

A once in a lifetime experience.

207-766-2500 • portlandschooner.com

207-766-2500 • ballastevents.com

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MAINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY 489 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 774-1822 info@mainehistory.org mainehistory.org

TRANSPORTATION

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 shuttles, limousine buses and motor coaches. Specializing in corporate and leisure travel, airport transfers, weddings, sightseeing and all special occasions. Online reservations available. See ad pg. 26

[ Vendor Directory ]

AIR & TRAIN TRAVEL NNEPRA AMTRAK DOWNEASTER 100 Thompson's Point Rd, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 780-1000 00) 872-7245 info@nnepra.com amtrakdowneaster.com The Amtrak Downeaster is your car-free connection from Brunswick, Maine to Boston, Massachusetts and beyond. Make a Downeaster train ride a part of your next meeting or event. Group travel is fun, easy, and affordable. Save up to 50% with our group travel discount. 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. See ad pg. 22 BUS, VAN LIMO & CHARTER COMPANIES ATLANTIC LIMOUSINE 46 Saco St Unit C, Scarborough, ME 04074 (207) 856-6400 Experience Maine's premier transportation service with Atlantic Limousine! Our diverse fleet features a range of vehicles, including elegant sedans, spacious SUVs, and luxurious limousines. Whether it's a wedding, a corporate event, or an airport transfer, we guarantee you'll arrive in unparalleled style. Enjoy top-tier service and arrive in style with Atlantic Limousine. atlanticlimomaine@gmail.com atlanticlimousinemaine.com

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. MOSS GALLERIES 100 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101 251 US Route 1, Falmouth, ME 04105 (207) 781-2620 liz@elizabethmossgalleries.com elizabethmossgalleries.com Moss Galleries represents 50 Maine and internationally renowned artists with a range of artistic styles from abstract to traditional seascapes. Visit and shop at our Falmouth and Portland galleries. PORTLAND MUSEUM OF ART 7 Congress Square, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 775-6148 mfichtel@portlandmuseum.org portlandmuseum.org By hosting an event at the Portland Museum of Art, you treat your guests to a distinct 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. 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 BOOMERANG YACHT CHARTERS 231 Front St, South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 321-8954 Come and see Casco Bay’s Islands, lighthouses, forts, and the Portland waterfront. Our public or private cruises are perfect for wedding parties, reunions, birthday bashes, corporate outings and more! Our ‘Cruise and Roll’ trip includes a fresh Maine Lobster roll, aboard our Maine-built lobster yacht. Up to 21 passengers! boomerang.maine@gmail.com boomerangyachtcharters.com

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!

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 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. See ad pg. 20

ACTIVITIES

ART, CULTURE & HISTORY COASTAL MAINE BOTANICAL GARDENS 105 Botanical Gardens Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537 (207) 633-8000 info@mainegardens.org mainegardens.org Whether your group is looking for a fun-filled few hours or a day-long adventure, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens provides an unforgettable experience for everyone, no matter age or ability. With curated tours and educational classes, your gateway to the natural world is waiting.

CUSTOM COACH AND LIMOUSINE 19 Bartlett Road, Gorham, ME 04038 (207) 797-9100 info@customcoachandlimo.com customcoachandlimo.com

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."

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