Visitor's Guide 2024-2025

FOOD + DRINK It’s easy to see why Portland keeps winning culinary accolades from authorities such as Bon Appétit—from the tried-and-true favorites to the newest sensations, the sheer number of restaurants and their crazy-good offerings have planted this region firmly on the culinary map. Maine has an abundance of authentic ingredients: fishermen haul fresh lobster and seafood to the docks every day, and organic farms and dairies support year-round farmers’ markets with locally raised meats and vegetables bursting with flavor. Maine is also at the forefront of the craft beverage boom, and you can try a flight, local wine, or a spirit or creative mocktail at Greater Portland’s many bars and beverage brewers. Tasting rooms often have their own small plates or enticing food trucks to pair with favorite sips and suds. (More on pages 30-38)

SHOPPING With specialty shops for dog lovers, comic collectors, and those who love to cook (and eat!), you’ll be tempted to bring home several new purchases. Poke through shops and galleries lining the cobblestone streets of Portland’s Old Port section. Just 15 minutes north of Portland, the picturesque lanes of Freeport’s charming New England village are home to national outlets and local boutiques. Don’t be deterred if you get the late night shopping bug or lack some essential gear for the next day’s outdoor adventure—the flagship store of world famous outfitter L.L.Bean in Freeport is open 24 hours every day, year-round. And if you come from a state that hasn’t yet legalized the sale of marijuana, your trip may be enhanced by visiting one or more local purveyors of everything from flower to edibles of all types. (More on pages 40-43)

ADVENTURE Let the breeze set you free, as you explore Casco Bay by sea—no experience needed as guided tours venture out to explore the fortified islands in Portland Harbor on kayaks or paddle boards. You can charter a sailboat or head out on a deep-sea fishing adventure to catch shark, halibut, and powerful bluefin tuna. L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs let you dabble in a host of experiences from fly casting to paddlesports. Spend a day on the links or tune up indoors with X-Golf Portland. Feeling playful? Throw axes or bowling balls or escape from a locked room by solving puzzles as a team. Travel inland to experience the high-level excitement of whitewater rafting or snowmobiling with one of Maine’s outdoor adventure resorts or find your happy place on the downhill slopes at Sunday River. (More on pages 19-24, 26-27)

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: DIGITAL EDGE; THOMPSON’S POINT; SERENA FOLDING; PORTLAND PADDLE; ROBERT WITKOWSKI; TIM GREENWAY

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