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GO TO TOWN

Don’t be fooled by Portland’s small-town flavor—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. Have fun in 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. Professional sports teams offer groups a great option while here for work or play. The Maine Mariners play their inaugural hockey season at Cross Insurance Arena where the Maine Mammoths recently made their debut introducing national arena football to the state. The Portland Sea Dogs, a Boston Red Sox affiliate, and the Maine Red Claws, a Boston Celtics affiliate, offer a family-friendly atmosphere. The region’s culinary scene is also bustling. 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 smorgasbord 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 sample drinks from Maine’s local breweries and distilleries. Hosting nearly 400 Arctic officials from over 20 countries around the world in Portland was a huge success. Guests explored Portland, shopped and enjoyed the restaurant scene, and are still raving about their experiences here.” — Dana Eidsness, Maine Arctic Council Host Committee “

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