Visitor's Guide 2024-2025

P erched on Casco Bay, Greater Portland offers up everything you’d expect from the Maine coast… historic forts, and lighthouses in all of Maine. Portland’s waterfront is still very much a

…plus a whole lot more! Maine’s largest metropolitan area time and again leads “Top Places” and “Best of” lists for vacation destinations in the U.S., and even worldwide. Greater Portland’s vibrant arts scene, exceptional shopping, gourmet cuisine, and fabulous outdoor recreation are only matched by its breathtaking natural surroundings. Ferries and festivals. Mansions and microbrews. Art walks and wine talks. It seems impossible that a single seaside city could offer so much. And yet, the Greater Portland Region is a tribute to diversity in a city of contrasts—where high-tech companies innovate in historic landmarks, and laptop millenials start their day sharing coffee with lobstermen. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s “City by the Sea,” once a trading and fishing settlement, has expanded into a thriving metro area, yet maintains much of its 19th-century architecture, landmarks, and adventurous spirit. New Mainers—immigrants and refugees from Africa, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia, as well as transplants from throughout the US—are infusing Greater Portland with fresh perspectives and the best aspects of their cultures. Portland offers some of the best access to neighboring islands (just a ferry ride away),

working port, an integral and thriving part of the local economy, as well as a lively mixture of rich nightlife and cutting-edge cuisine. Go 10 or 15 minutes in any direction and you’ll be surprised you’re anywhere near Maine’s largest metropolitan area. Greater Portland is unique as a major cultural center that equally embraces its natural environment; plentiful parks and nature preserves are quick connections to tranquility and beauty within the state’s largest urban center.* Although its hopping nightlife, great dining, cultural attractions, and Old World ambience have propelled Portland to the top of best places to vacation, you won’t have to give up the quintessential Maine coast to enjoy all that Greater Portland has to offer. Whether you’re out for a day of shopping, visiting museums and galleries, or touring historic sites, you’re never far from places of pure, scenic beauty; it’s one of the reasons we say Portland is “Authentic By Nature.”

*See page 17 for a list of parks and preserves to enjoy.

“In Portland’s Old Port area, narrow, gas-lit streets lead to delightful shops, galleries, and a multitude of acclaimed restaurants.” Mimi Bigelow Steadman, AAA Magazine

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COREY TEMPLETON (2); KIRSTEN ALANA PHOTOGRAPHY

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