Event Planner's Guide 2017

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MEET IN MAINE .

Come for the lobsters and lighthouses, and find yourself surprised by our amazing array of arts, entertainment and shops. Let our cobblestone walkways greet you as you stroll around the Old Port. Experience every outdoor activity imaginable, and enjoy our exceptional culinary scene and accommodations... Discover Maine. Explore a region where business meets adventure and natural beauty inspires productivity. More than a meeting place, Maine is an exciting getaway that will keep your delegates entertained in every season of the year. When you think of a great meeting, conference or event you’ve attended, it’s usually the location that has left its impression on you. Whether it’s the beauty of the place or the combination of activities and sights you’ve been able to take in on your free time, the choice of destination will leave its mark on your meeting or event for years to come. Now imagine a destination where spectacular scenery and a wealth of exciting activities create the perfect backdrop for your meeting, and you’ve just envisioned Greater Portland. 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 held in Maine. The quality of service you’ll experience here will ensure your event is one of the most successful ever. So stop imagining that ideal destination and come experience Maine for yourself. We look forward to sending you home refreshed, energized and thoroughly pleased to have discovered a magical fusion of business and adventure at last, right here in Maine.

94 Commercial Street Portland, Maine 04101 (207) 772-4994 (207) 874-9043 fax sales@visitportland.com visitportland.com How to Reach Us Call or email us at: (207) 772-4994 ext. 227 or sales@visitportland.com or fill out an online RFP at visitportland.com/meetings President & CEO Lynn Tillotson / ext. 233 ltillotson@visitportland.com Editor Amy Tolk / ext. 236 atolk@visitportland.com Follow Us

@meetinmaine @marryinmaine #visitportland

CONTENTS

2-7

Free Bureau Services

8-17 Area Introduction 12-14 Festivals & Annual Events 18 Transportation 21 Maine State Map 22-23 Downtown Portland Map 24 Neighorhoods 27-33 Vendor Directory

CAPACITIES & AMENITIES CHARTS 35

Exhibit Halls & Auditoriums

35-40 Facilities & Restaurants 41-44 Accommodations 44 Outdoor Retreats with Lodging 45-56 Featured Properties 57 Index of Businesses

ON THE COVER: You can head out to sea by ferry or tourboat

from Portland’s waterfront. Photo by Corey Templeton.

PHOTOS THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Cynthia Farr-Weinfeld; VisitPortland.com/ Chris Riccardo; Tim Greenway; Cynthia Farr-Weinfeld; Thomas Mitchell

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FREE SERVICES .

“

SMALL TOWN TAKEOVER Looking for a convention center in New England? While you won’t find one in Portland, Maine, do talk to our staff and learn how we accommodate groups of more than 500 by utilizing our Cross Insurance Arena and larger conference hotels, all within walking distance of each other, in the beautiful 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 with in many distinctive offsite venue options to get your attendees out exploring the city and experiencing all that is unique to Southern Maine. Be a big fish in a small pond by bringing your convention to Portland! Small town, large hospitality. SEEING IS BELIEVING Interested in joining us on a Familiarization Tour? Check out visitportland.com/meetings/ plan-your-event/fam-tours to see the upcoming opportunities. We’d love to show you around! Not only did your assistance cut my work load in half, but each of your recommendations was a tremendous hit with our members and guests—I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!.” — Morgan Milner, Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial

At the Greater Portland Convention & Visitors Bureau, your meeting or event is of utmost importance to us and, together with our partners in the hospitality industry, we’ll work to make it one of the most pleasurable you’ll ever hold. 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 complimentary for planners; check out how we can help! AT THE PRE-BOOKING STAGE • Letters of Invitation • Overnight Accommodations & Function Space Availability • Bid Proposals & Assistance with Presentations • Site Inspections & Area Tours • Logistical Assistance (such as obtaining city or state permits) • Publicity/Promotional Materials

AT THE POST-BOOKING STAGE • Referrals to Convention Service Vendors • Itinerary & Program Ideas • Destination/Attendance Building Brochures • Delegate Gift Ideas • Visitor 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, which begin on page 34, highlight the amenities of our accommodations and function facilities. Our convention sales and service 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.

Photo on right: courtesy Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

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SPORTS . From the mountains to the sea, Maine sports venues have played host to youth, amateur, national, international, university-level, and professional-level sports. In 2017, we’re excited to once again welcome cyclists to the Farm to Fork Fondo, a unique ride for people of all ages and abilities which highlights the region’s vibrant farm-to-table movement with station stops hosted by local farms. Play in Maine . 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. Maine has the space to hold large competitions and the services to ensure they run smoothly. From marathons & triathlons, to cycling, golf, and much more, the state’s natural resources allow for the widest range of sporting events. The first island-to-island style SwimRun race hit US soil in Casco Bay off Portland this past August. Inspired by the preeminent, international swimrun race series OTILLO, originating a decade ago in Sweden, the Maine race consists of alternating swim and overland running legs (island roads, trails, and shoreline scrambles) between several islands. As well as a Short Course for newcomers, a Long Course event is also in the works for 2017 with approximately 6 miles of open water swimming and 16 miles of overland routing over 12 islands. Greater Portland is geared up for the excitement of organized sports and our convention team is eager to help you navigate the logistics of hosting a major league event in Maine. In partnership with the Maine Sports Commission, we have the resources to help promote and make sure your sporting event is a slam dunk. “ We chose Maine because it is a perfect fit—the beautiful venues, vast amounts of top notch craft breweries, and community support are second to none.” — Dan Imperato, Major League Triathlon

US National Toboggan Championships Feb 10-12, Camden Youth Bowling Championship Apr 1-2, Portland PBA League Playoffs Apr 15-16, Portland Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race April 15, Bangor Salomon Trail Running Festival May 27-28, New Gloucester Trek Across Maine Jun 16-18, Newry to Belfast Rock Lobster Relay Jun 23-24, Bar Harbor to Portland Old Port Half Marathon & 5K Jul 8, Portland SMALL SAMPLING OF UPCOMING SPORTING EVENTS IN MAINE

Maine YogaFest Jul 8-9, Portland Tri for a Cure Jul 23, South Portland

New England Forest Rally Jul 21-22, Newry TD Beach to Beacon 10K Aug 5, Cape Elizabeth Farm to Fork Fondo Aug 27, Freeport REV3 Maine Aug 27, Old Orchard Beach Lobsterman Triathlon Sep 16, Freeport The Maine Marathon Oct 1, Portland The Dempsey Challenge Oct 7-8, Lewiston Santa Hustle Dec 3, South Portland Polar Bear Dip and Dash Dec 31, Portland

Photos on right: clockwise from top left: courtesy Maine Sports Commission; Cynthia Farr-Weinfeld; courtesy Farm to Fork Fondo; courtesy Portland Craft Brew Races

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WEDDINGS .

It’s the day you have always thought about or you’re a wedding planner looking to make a dream come true. With breathtaking scenic views and loads of charm, Maine pretty much sells itself as the perfect wedding backdrop. Marry in Maine. Thinking about a forest fairyland or island idyll? 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.

MAKE IT SPECIAL MAKE IT MAINE

Even if you don’t hold your wedding in Maine, consider joining us for a rousing bachelor or bachelorette party or a romantic mini-moon. 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 CLIMATE The sea tempers Maine’s climate, making for mild winters and cool summer breezes. Temperatures range from comfortable 60’s–80’s (with low humidity) during the summer months to 20’s–40’s during the winter. AVERAGE TEMPERATURES MONTHS HIGHS LOWS January 34° 17° February 35° 17° March 42° 25° April 54° 35° May 64° 44° June 75° 55° July 79° 59° August 79° 59° September 70° 50° October 61° 39° November 50° 32° December 38° 22°

LET US HELP YOU WITH • Wedding Venue • Guest Accommodations • Rehearsal Dinner • Tent & Other Rentals • Photographers • Caterers

• Printers • Entertainment • Florists • Transportation • Hiring a Maine Wedding Consultant • Bachelor/Bachelorette Party • Honeymoon/Mini-moon

• Visitor Literature • Wedding Favors

It was an easy decision to choose Portland as our wedding destination. We knew that our guests would fall in love with the city as much as we have, and we are still hearing about all of the things people enjoyed about their trip to Maine.” — Caitlin Murphy, Baltimore, MD “

Photo on right: Anne Skidmore Photography / Hardy Farm

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OUR REGION.

Seascapes and cityscapes blend harmoniously in Portland, perched on a peninsula, jutting out into island-studded Casco Bay. Within a 20-minute radius of Maine’s southern metropolitan hub, you’ll find a variety of landscapes and towns to explore. Welcome to Maine. In Portland, older architecture blends gracefully with the new as you stroll along the working 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 teahouses beckon to passersby. Harbor cruises, historic buildings, and galleries nestle along the waterfront. On a stroll through the Old Port, one of the country’s more successful warehouse revitalization efforts, you’ll hear the squall of gulls and the low moan of bell buoys as you watch fishermen unloading 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 natural authenticity and a deep sense of continuity. With sophisticated style and artistic sensibilities, Greater Portland is never-the-less unpretentious and welcoming. In Scarborough, your attendees can enjoy a stroll on a sandy beach or a team-building canoe trip through a salt marsh. 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 find fabulous outlet bargains, but your group can also experience active adventures there with L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery School.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • Art Museums & Galleries • Professional Dance, Theatre, Symphony & Opera • Local & National Musicians • Entertainers, Performers, Downeast Humorists ATTRACTIONS & AMUSEMENTS • Brewery & Distillery Tours • Lighthouse Photography Tours • Baseball & Basketball Teams • Parks & Wildlife Viewing • Group Art Experiences • Sightseeing Tours / Land & Sea • Maine Indoor Karting • Casino Gaming • Scenic Railroad Tours • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens • Portland Observatory DINING • Lobster, Seafood & Clambakes • “Taste of Maine” Receptions • Local Microbreweries • Culinary Tours • Wine Education & Pairings SHOPPER’S DELIGHT • Old Port Boutiques • Maine Made Gifts • Arts District Galleries & Shops • Freeport & Kittery Outlets • L.L.Bean • The Maine Mall • Cryptozoology Museum • Portland Science Center

Photos on right: clockwise from top left: Amy Tolk; L.L.Bean; Corey Templeton; Thomas Mitchell; Amy Tolk

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OUT & ABOUT.

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 metropolitan 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. The region’s culinary scene is also bustling. The national press has caught on to the fact that you can’t walk down the street in Portland without bumping into several ways to treat your taste buds. Maine lobster continues to have a devoted following and a lobster and clambake with all the fixings, on the beach or other setting, 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, distilleries, and wineries. The attendees went their separate ways on Thursday night and were very impressed with the Old Port—we heard nothing but positive feedback. Thank you for pointing us in the right direction! ” — Nathan Levesque, Eaton Peabody “ The conference was fantastic. We had ~20 people from out of state and they loved the city.

HISTORICAL SITES • Transportation Museums • Museum Homes • Center for Maine History • Architectural Walking Tours • Poland Spring Preservation Park • Museum at Portland Head Light • Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village • Portland Observatory • Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse ON & AROUND THE SEA • Harbor Cruises • Lighthouse Museums • Windjammer Cruises • Fishing (Deep Sea & Fresh Water) • Lobstering Tours • Whale & Puffin Watching • Land & Sea 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 • Lobster & Clambakes • Kayaking & Canoeing • Sunset Sailboat Charters

Photos on right: Corey Templeton

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MOT IVATE .

FESTIVALS & ANNUAL EVENTS 2017 MARCH

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. 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. Welcome to Maine. The Western Lakes and Mountains region offers superb downhill skiing, snowmobiling and rafting, while most other outdoor activities are easily accessible in Greater Portland. You can paddle gently in a 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 Free- port are the ideal place for bird watchers to roam while golfers will find excellent links, both inland and oceanside. Biking and kayaking are two of the most popular outdoor activities that can be done as a group, and experienced guides are available to lead your group in both. Elegant schooners will sail your party down the bay for a close-up view of forts and lighthouses. Or you can don rubber gloves and haul traps with a Maine lobsterman. Try ice-fishing or whale-watch- ing, or let L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Schools introduce you to archery, paddle-boarding, fly-fishing, or a host of other exciting activities. Reward your group with a motivating adventure or simply enjoy the views as you conduct business amid a natural backdrop conducive to productivity and clear thinking. Maine will not disappoint. “ Maine, and especially Portland, has some of the friendliest people; they really made our members feel welcomed and at home.” — Tom Voytek, Commander, CWV Post 1562

1–11 / Maine Restaurant Week Specially-priced three-course meals celebrate Maine’s culinary scene from the South Coast to Maine’s Mid Coast. 24–26 / Maine Boatbuilders Show Portland’s gathering of the finest craftsmen & boatbuilders on the East Coast. MAR 29–APR 2 / The Maine Flower Show in Portland. Displays by Maine’s best garden and landscape companies. JUNE 11 / Old Port Festival in Portland. Crafts & food booths, kids’ activities, music & live entertainment. 16–18 / Launch! A Maritime Festival in the Kennebunk region. Celebrating all things maritime for which this area is so well known. 22–24 / Greek Heritage Festival in Portland. Greek foods, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. 25–JUL 1 / Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor. Fully rigged windjammers sail into the harbor. Concerts, antique boat parade, & fireworks. JULY 1–SEPT 2 / Summer In The Park in Freeport . Fun family events and free concerts all summer. 21–23 / Yarmouth Clam Festival Celebration includes a parade, races, games, entertainment & all the clams you can eat. AUGUST 2–6 / Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland. New England’s fun festival where lobster is king. 5 / Beach to Beacon10K Road Race in Cape Elizabeth. 5,000+ runners race from Crescent Beach to Portland Head Light. 12 / Art In The Park in South Portland. Paintings & prints by artists from the entire Eastern Seaboard. 10–19 / Portland Chamber Music Festival in Portland. Evening performances by outstanding young musicians.

Photos on right: from top: HappyME; Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort

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SEASONS .

New England is blessed to have four seasons that each brings its own distinct pleasures. The clear, crisp days of autumn give way to winter’s frosty elegance while spring’s thaw is accompanied by new growth and brilliant floral hues. Summer is chock-a-block full of activities and also a time to unwind by the lake or on the beach, cooled by a salty sea breeze. Year-round in Maine. 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 shout “Bravo” 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 less but the region is filled with fine dining, sports, and an abundance of arts and entertainment. You’ll enjoy performances of professional theater, dance, the Portland Symphony, and headliner concerts, all of whose primary programming correspond with Portland’s value dates. 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. Throughout the summer, the skies fill with the sounds of outdoor concerts. 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!

FESTIVALS & ANNUAL EVENTS (Continued from page 12) AUGUST 11–13 / Italian Street Bazaar in Portland. Ethnic celebration featuring band music, children’s games & Italian food. 18–20 / MS Regatta Harborfest on Casco Bay. Sailboat race, tug boat display, music & food on Portland’s waterfront. 26 / WCSH-6 Sidewalk Arts Festival in Portland. 350 booths featuring artists from all over the country. 25–27 / American Folk Festival in Bangor. Music, song & dance from across the country & the world, held on the Bangor waterfront. SEPTEMBER 24–30 / Cumberland Fair Large agricultural fair with crafts. OCTOBER 7–8 / Freeport Fall Festival Over 100 artists will exhibit at this annual event. 26–29 / Harvest on the Harbor in Portland. Food & Wine Festival celebrating Maine’s culinary arts. NOVEMBER NOV 24–DEC 23 / Polar Express in Portland. Ride the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad to the North Pole. NOV 24–DEC 17 / Light Up Your Holidays in Portland. Downtown is alive & merry with joy-filled celebration on its streets. DECEMBER 1–3 / Sparkle Weekend in Freeport. Parade, carol singing & horse-drawn carriage rides. 1–10 / Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport . Annual celebration with tree lighting, candlelight ceremony, caroling & crafts fairs.

Photos on right: clockwise from top left: Tim Greenway; courtesy Sugarloaf Resort; Thomas Mitchell; Benjamin Williamson

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L INGER .

“

Portland was a great town for our reunion; about half of us were there for a day or more after the reunion itself spending time in the area.” — Walt Steesy, Sampson AFB Veterans Fellowship 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 into Adirondack chairs, you’ll find it hard to believe you’re only 30 minutes to an hour away from Maine’s largest city. 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 Jetport, Portland Transportation Center (train and bus), The Maine Mall, and up to Falmouth 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

Your delegates may want to extend their stay in Maine with a variety of pre- and post-conference trips. Our service team can suggest daytrips or weeklong outings; from the mountains to the sea, there’s so much to discover and so many reasons to turn a business trip into a real vacation. Popular Pre-/ Post-Conference Trips SOUTH & MID-COASTAL MAINE Charming towns and villages dot the coast both south and north of Portland. Enjoy forts and lighthouses, amusement parks and maritime museums, salt marshes and beaches. Kittery and Freeport are home to wonderful outlet shopping, and outdoor outfitter L.L.Bean, in Freeport, is a destination unto itself. DOWNEAST MAINE & THE CANADIAN PROVINCES Maine’s only national park is located less than four hours north of Portland, near the resort town of Bar Harbor. The Park Loop Road, hiking trails and carriage paths offer spectacular views and a variety of activities. As you head north, visit the quaint villages of Boothbay Harbor, Rockport and Camden, boasting terrific art galleries, shops and windjammer cruises. The Cat Ferry makes the trip to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in 5 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, kayaking, whitewater rafting, cross-country or down- hill skiing, and the wildlife of these unspoiled landscapes. 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. 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. The Maine Birding Trail is a valuable resource for avid birders who want to see Maine’s feathered friends. Moose watching, whale watching and other wildlife tours are also available in various regions throughout the state.

Photos on right: clockwise from top left: courtesy Sugarloaf Resort; Thomas Mitchell (2)

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TRAVEL .

COMMERCIAL AIRLINES SERVING PORTLAND • American Airlines

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 your attendees service and availability 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. Limousine, bus and van services are also available from other nearby airports. 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. And ferry service between Portland and the Canadian maritime provinces on the CAT offers an entertaining travel experience. 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. Our service team can also hook you up with local motorcoach companies to provide a shuttle bus for your delegates and help you find parking for large city-wide conventions.

• Delta Air Lines • Elite Airways • JetBlue Airways • Southwest Airlines • United Airlines NONSTOP FLIGHT CITIES Atlanta

Baltimore Charlotte Chicago/O’Hara & Midway Detroit Melbourne Newark New York/JFK & LaGuardia Orlando Philadelphia Washington, DC/Dulles & Reagan (The Jetport also offers easy connections from many other destinations.) OTHER AIRPORTS Miles to Portland Augusta....................................................... 60 miles Bangor.........................................................130 miles Bar Harbor...............................................160 miles Logan (Boston)........................................100 miles Manchester (NH)..................................90 miles Pease (NH).................................................50 miles

FROM OTHER CITES

Approx Approx Miles Flt. Times

Atlanta

1220 3:30 520 1:30 100 :30 1095 2:30 1840 5:00 3265 6:20 320 :60 3250 6:30 1500 3:30 535 1:40 415 1:15

Balitmore

Boston

SCHEDULES Air: portlandjetport.org Train: traintomaine.com Bus: concordcoachlines.com Ferry: cascobaylines.com

Chicago

Dallas London

New York Philadelphia San Francisco

Tampa

Washington, D.C.

Photo on right: @mainedrone

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VIP T our & C harTer B us C omPany

Your first choice for safe, efficient, reliable & comfortable transportation, tours & related travel services.

H Wedding Shuttles H Corporate Events H School Trips H Sporting Events H Convention Shuttles H Shopping Excursions H Private Charters H Preplanned Tours H Multi-Day Tours H Senior Trips H Airport & Hotel Shuttles

Make an ordinary trip, extraordinary 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.

A modern fleet of vehicles, accommodating 6 to 55 passengers, with wheelchair accessibility, Wi-Fi, Restroom, Luggage Storage, DVD monitors, Seatbelts and USB Outlets.

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

129-137 Fox St. Portland ME 04101 (ph) 207-772-4457 (f) 207-772-7020 www.vipchartercoaches.com H aviptour@maine.rr.com

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MAINE

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

Fort Kent

Caribou

AROOSTOOK COUNTY

Presque Isle

Quebec, Canada

New Brunswick, Canada

THE MAINE HIGHLANDS

State Park Baxter

Houlton

Mt. Katahdin

To Quebec City

Millinocket

6

157

Moosehead Lake

Jackman

201

Greenville

95

The Forks

15

27

1

VALLEY KENNEBEC & MOOSE RIVER

6

Calais

Carrabassett

15

16

Rangely

East Port

9

& MOUNTAINS MAINE LAKES

1

Bangor

Lubec

DOWNEAST & ACADIA

17

4

Skowhegan

Machias

1A

Farmington

2

2

1

Rumford

95

Bethel

New Hampshire

3

Bucksport

Belfast

26

27

4

3

Bar Harbor

Augusta

Oxford

Castine

1

17

Acadia National Park

Camden

Bridgton

North Conway, NH

95

302

Atlantic Ocean

Auburn

Rockland

THE MID COAST

Lewiston

Gray

Naples

1

Brunswick

Sebago Lake

Owls Head

MILES TO PORTLAND

295

95

Wiscasset

Bath

Monhegan Island

Windham

Auburn/Lewiston. 38 Augusta. . . . . . . . . . .60 Bangor. 133 Bar Harbor. 160 Bath. 32 Bethel/Newry. 67 Boothbay Harbor. 59 Brunswick. 26 Camden . 105 Cape Elizabeth. 9 Carrabasset Valley. 108 Casco/Naples . 35 Cumberland. 12 Falmouth. 7

Freeport . 17 Gray. 21 Hallowell. 53 Kennebunkport . 29 Kittery. 48 Lincolnville . 86 Millinocket. 200 New Gloucester. 24 Newfield. 30 Newagen. 63 North Conway, NH. 65 Northport. 90 Ogunquit. 35 Old Orchard Beach. 14

Owls Head. 32 Oxford. 39 Poland Spring. 30 Rangeley. 128 Rockland. 105 Rockport. 103 Saco. 17 Scarborough. 10 Standish. 20 The Forks. 144 Westbrook. 7 Windham. 26 Yarmouth. 11 York Beach/Harbor. 41

Freeport

Boothbay Harbor

Portland

GREATER PORTLAND

BEACHES THE MAINE

Old Orchard Beach

Saco

Casco Bay

Kennebunkport

95

Ogunquit

York

Kittery

Portsmouth

22

25

3

4

7

5

6

2

1

Spring St

Stroudwater

Cummings Rd

Running Hill Rd

47 Exit

114

46 Exit

15

45 Exit

95

A

9

Maine Mall Rd

6

Capisic St

Johnson Rd

Westbrook St

Fore River Sanctuary

8

Portland International Jetport

7

The Maine Mall

295

9

Western Ave

3

Foden Rd

Mussey Rd Payne Rd

12

Gorham Rd

Kaplan University

Jetport Plaza

Stevens Ave

1 Exit

Portland Transportation Center

Brighton Ave

Congress St

St. John St

2 Exit

Clarks Pond Rd

2

THOMPSON’S POINT

3 Exit

5B Exit

Deering Ave

5A Exit

295

5 Exit

B

9

4 Exit

Hadlock Field

1

Deering Oaks Park

Portland Expo

1

1

South Portland South Portland

Park Avenue

St. John St

Veterans Bridge

Deering Ave

Lincoln St

Brattle St

Post Office

West St

Valley St

PARKSIDE

Evans St

77

Pine St

Hannover

Vaughn St

Portland St

C

Cumberland Ave

Western Promenade Chadwick St

Carleton St

State St

Al

Paris St

Pine St

Neal St

Broadway

23

Vaughn St

High St

Spring St

Danforth St

Forest Ave

Oak St

Fore River

Public Library

Casco St

State St

Brown St

1A

Brackett St

Congress St

Kelsey St

Free St Civic Center

Emery St

Clark St

D

11

Spring St

Center St

Chestnut

77

DOWNTOWN

Park St

WEST END

West Commercial St

Elm St

Oak St

5

High St

Pleasant St

Danforth St

Brackett St

Fore St

State St

Union St 14 13

E

York St

Center St

Wharf St

Cross St

4

1A

Anthoine

Maple St

Waterman Dr

Dana

Commercial St

Casco Bay Bridge

Highland Ave

WATERFRONT

Market St

Mill Creek

F

Union Wharf

Ocean St

High St

Mussey

77

South Portland

Front St

Sawyer St

Pine St

G

Sawyer St

Broadway

Breakwater St

Mitchell Rd

Cape Elizabeth

Bug Light

Cottage Rd

Pillsbury St

Preble St

Shore Rd

Fort Rd

Southern Maine Community College

Willard Beach

Fort Williams Park

H

ATM P

KEY

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Portland Head Light

9

ATM

P

? F

R

X HOSPITAL AIRPORT BUS STATION

R ACCOMMODATIONS INFO CENTER PARKING

OLD PORT DISTRICT ARTS DISTRICT

H

48

Ram Island Light

P ?

63

45

45

?

F

I

X

9

63

48

9

14

12

10

11

13

8

20

Blackstrap Rd

Riverside St

18

Riverside St

48 Exit

95

53 Exit

Maine Turnpike

52 Exit

Warren Ave

302

W a s h i n g t o n A v e .

21

Stevens Ave

Allen Ave

Woodfords St

Falmouth Spur - to Rt 295

Pleasant

100

Devonshire

26

Walton St

Read St

Forest Ave

Dartmouth St

Canco St

Vannah St

Ocean Ave

William St

Falmouth St

Baxter Blvd

Payson Park

22

Washington Ave

9

xit

Bedford St

Back Cove

Presumpscot

t

Veranda St

8 Exit

7 Exit

er St

9 Exit

BAYSIDE

295

Marginal Way

Kennebec St

Oxford St

reble St

Somerset St

Lancaster St

Chestnut St

Cumberland Ave

Fox St

Anderson St.

Elm St

EAST BAYSIDE

City Hall

Post Office

Walnut St

Franklin St

Washington Ave

Myrtle St

17

Cumberland Ave

Congress St

Congress St

Federal St

emple St

North St

EAST END

Pearl St

Middle St

Newbury St

Monument

Exchange St

16

t

Milk St

Market St

Eastern Promenade

Fore St

Commercial St Silver St

Boat Launch

19

Montfort St

10

India St

Long Wharf

Fore St

Thames St

Hancock St

St. Lawrence

Portland Pier

Custom House Wharf

East End Beach

Morning St Fort Allen Park

Ocean Gateway Terminal

Maine State Pier

Nova Scotia Ferry

Cruise Ship Pier (P2B2)

Cruise Ship Pier (POT)

ACCOMMODATIONS – LOCATED ON THIS MAP

ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID ID BUSINESS

ADDRESS

GRID

13 Hyatt Place Portland Old Port

433 Fore St 468 Fore St

E7

1 Best Western Merry Manor Inn 700 Main St, So. Portland

B1

14 Portland Harbor Hotel E7 15 Portland Marriott at Sable Oaks 200 Sable Oaks Dr, So. Portland A3 16 Portland Regency Hotel & Spa 20 Milk St E8 17 The Press Hotel 119 Exchange St D8 18 Ramada Plaza Portland 155 Riverside St A8 19 Residence Inn Portland 145 Fore St E10 Downtown/Waterfront 20 Super 8 Motel 208 Larrabee Rd, Westbrook A8 21 University of New England 716 Stevens Ave A10 22 USM Dept of Conferences 88 Bedford St B7 23 Westin Portland Harborview 157 High St C6 Hotel

2 Clarion Hotel

1230 Congress St

B5

3 Courtyard by Marriott

100 Southborough Dr, So. Portland A2

4 Courtyard by Marriott Portland 321 Commercial St

E5

Downtown/Waterfront

5 Danforth Inn

163 Danforth St

D4

6 DoubleTree by Hilton 7 Embassy Suites by Hilton 8 Fairfield Inn Maine Mall 9 Hilton Garden Inn / Airport 10 Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 11 Holiday Inn By the Bay 12 Homewood Suites by Hilton

363 Maine Mall Rd, So. Portland A2

1050 Westbrook St

A6

2 Cummings Rd, Scarborough

A1

145 Jetport Blvd 65 Commercial St

A5 F9 D5

88 Spring St

200 Southborough Dr, So. Portland A2

NEIGHBORHOODS.

Many neighborhoods with distinctly different characters exist on the hub of Portland’s downtown, the Portland Peninsula, only three miles long and one-and-one-half miles wide. Because of its compact size, your group is likely to meet and spend time in several of the following districts. At home in Maine. EAST END The panoramic harbor views from the Eastern Prom cannot be matched elsewhere 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, situated among a bevy of restau- rants and small shops, crowns Commercial Street.

ARTS DISTRICT The cultural epicenter of Maine, Portland’s Arts District encompasses an art school, world-renowned art museum, numerous galleries, professional theatre, and live performance venues. OLD PORT/WATERFRONT Portland’s working waterfront is an attraction in and of itself. Renovated brick warehouses and tour boats line Commer- cial Street. Cruise ships dock daily in the fall. The Old Port is the heart of Portland’s shopping, dining, and nightlife scene. EAST BAYSIDE This former Industrial area Is now exploding with coffeeshops, breweries, distilleries, and other innovative businesses. East Bayside is definitely Portland’s new hot zone. 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. PARKSIDE Taking its name from 55-acre Deering Oaks Park, this district is also home to the Portland Exposition Building; University of Southern Maine; the Portland Ice Arena; and Hadlock Stadium, home of the Portland Sea Dogs baseball team. THOMPSON’S POINT Imaginative and dynamic, this newly developed waterfront district combines entertainment and conference facilities; an outdoor skating rink; quirky museums, a distillery; a brewery; and the training and performance company, Circus Maine.

Photo: – VisitPortland.com/Emily Dudek

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Live. Work. Laugh. Play.

A transportive place like nothing else you’ve ever seen or experienced. Alive with kinetic, creative energy, Thompson’s Point has become an iconic symbol of what we all know about living in Maine: with creativity, vision, and independent spirit anything is possible. ALL IN ONE EXCITING NEW NEIGHBORHOOD Greater Portland’s most exciting downtown location for your event.

Thompson ’ s Po i nt | thompsonspo i ntma i ne . com | nei ghbors@thompsonspo i ntma ine . com

DIRECTORY LISTINGS

TRANSPORTATION Air & Train Travel.....................................................................................................27 Bus, Van, Limousine & Charter Companies.............................................27 ACTIVITIES Adventure, Sports & Recreation.......................................................................27 Arts, Culture & History .........................................................................................27 Cruises, Charters & Tours...................................................................................29 SERVICE VENDORS Audio Visual & Electrical Services................................................................30 Catering & Lobsterbakes.....................................................................................30 Display & Exhibit Services / Rentals...........................................................30 Entertainment..............................................................................................................31 Event, Meeting, Trade Show & Wedding Planners..............................31 Florists............................................................................................................................. 32 Promotional Items & Gifts.................................................................................. 32 Photographers & Videographers.................................................................... 32 Printers / Publishers............................................................................................... 33 Special Services......................................................................................................... 33 Receptive Tour Operators / Travel Services.......................................... 33

{ Vendor Directory }

Churchill, party of 200... you may now be seated.

CHURCHILL E V E N T S

Designing, planning, and catering your perfect event.

churchillcaterers.com

26 CVB

L.L.BEAN OUTDOOR DISCOVERY SCHOOLS 15 Casco St, Freeport, ME 04033 (888) 270-2326 / outdoor_discovery@llbean.com llbean.com/adventure Corporate team building, group trips, private lessons, kids’ birthday parties – our expert guides will help you create an experience that’s right for your group. From paddle boarding to fly casting to overnight trips, we offer a wide range of exciting outdoor programs – let us plan a fun event for you. MAINE INDOOR KARTING 23 Washington Ave, Scarborough, ME 04074 (207) 885-0058 FAX: (207) 885-0314 info@maineindoorkarting.com maineindoorkarting.com Look no further than Maine’s only premier indoor karting facility. We offer parties and group outings for most any size group. With speeds approaching 40MPH, we are known as the fastest team builder around. You are guaranteed to be adrenaline-filled and leave with memories to last a lifetime! OXFORD CASINO 777 Casino Way, PO Box 777, Oxford, ME 04270 (207) 539-6700 / info@oxfordcasino.com oxfordcasino.com Oxford Casino offers a unique entertainment experience with contemporary table games and slot machines. Grab your friends and have some fun at southern Maine’s only casino. Excitement goes 24/7 and there’s always a reason to celebrate. Just minutes from Exit 63 off the Maine Turnpike. See ad pg. 28 The Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. You can see the future stars of the Boston Red Sox today. Former Sea Dogs players include Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, Dustin Pedroia, and many others. The Sea Dogs provide fun, affordable, family entertainment. Perfect for group outings. SALT PUMP CLIMBING CO 36 Haigis Parkway, Scarborough, ME 04074 (207) 219-8145 / info@saltpumpclimbing.com saltpumpclimbing.com Climbing fosters good communication and teamwork and builds self-esteem and confidence. Men and women are on equal footing. Our staff will work to create a fun event to meet your group’s needs and desires. A community room, tables, chairs, and A/V equipment are available. PORTLAND SEA DOGS 271 Park Ave, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 874-9300 FAX: (207) 780-0317 seadogs@seadogs.com seadogs.com

TRANSPORTATION AIR & TRAIN TRAVEL AMTRAK DOWNEASTER 100 Thompson’s Point Rd, Portland, ME 04102 (800) USA-RAIL / info@nnepra.com traintomaine.com The Amtrak Downeaster operates five round trips daily between Portland, ME and Boston, MA. Connect via Amtrak to cities to the south and west. A great trip starts with good planning; visit us online for some helpful tips. Group discounts of up to 50% available.

Times Shuttle is also available for weddings, trade shows, and conventions. We also provide airport shuttles. Our 12 passenger van has individual seats, providing a very comfortable ride along with low rates and friendly service. MAINE LIMOUSINE SERVICE 184 Main St, Suite 1A, South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 883-0222 FAX: (207) 885-5415 info@mainelimo.com mainelimo.com Maine Limousine Service’s professional, knowledgeable, uniformed chauffeurs will escort you to any destination. Our fleet of immaculate, late model vehicles includes Sedans, SUV’s, Limousines, Shuttle Buses, Vans and a 1962 Antique Bentley. Specializing in corporate and leisure travel, airport transfers, weddings, sightseeing and all special occasions. Online reservations available. See ad pg. 19

{ Vendor Directory }

NORTHEAST AIR 1011 Westbrook St, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 774-6318 FAX: (877) 354-7881 info@northeastair.com northeastair.com

NORTHEAST CHARTER & TOUR CO., INC 235 Goddard Rd, Lewiston, ME 04240 (207) 784-3159 FAX: (207) 786-0579 sriccio@northeastchartertour.com northeastchartertour.com

Northeast Air is Portland, Maine’s finest fullservice FBO (Fixed Base Operator), offering aircraft fueling, maintenance, concierge, charter and more. For more than 45 years, Northeast Air has provided top quality customer service and support for charter and private flights arriving at and departing from the Portland International Jetport.

Northeast Charter & Tour offers extensive passenger transportation services to get you where you need to go. Our variety of group transportation ranges from town cars and limousines to stylish minibuses and, of course, our fleet of full 56-passenger charter buses. Sporting events, airport service, casino trips, we can do it all.

PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL JETPORT 1001 Westbrook St, Portland, ME 04102 (207) 874-8877 FAX: (207) 774-7740 pwmadmin@portlandmaine.gov portlandjetport.org

VIP TOUR & CHARTER BUS CO. 129 Fox St, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 772-4457 FAX: (207) 772-7020

One of New England’s fastest growing airports serving nearly 1.8 million passengers a year. 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. See ad pg. 20 BUS, VAN, LIMOUSINE & CHARTER COMPANIES CUSTOM COACH AND LIMOUSINE Maine family owned motorcoach and limousine company, specializing in group charters and customized transportation. Modern European style motorcoaches: 29, 54 & 57 passengers, school buses, limousines: 8 and 20 passengers, sedans and 14 passenger executive vans available. “You’ll get accustomed to custom.” GOOD TIMES SHUTTLE 36 Shannon Lane, Saco, ME 04072 (207) 400-4560 / bruce@goodtimesshuttle.com goodtimesshuttle.com Transportation shuttle business based in the Portland, ME area. We provide service to many New England and Maine Destinations. Good 19 Bartlett Rd, Gorham, ME 04038 (207) 797-9100 FAX: (207) 797-9090 info@customcoachandlimo.com customcoachandlimo.com

aviptour@maine.rr.com vipchartercoaches.com

VIP provides a multitude of transportation services, including wedding and convention shuttles, corporate and sporting events, school trips, shopping excursions, multi-day tours, private charters and more. Vehicles range from Deluxe 55 passenger Coaches, Activity Coaches seating 41-44, Mini Coaches seating 32, Ford Flex seating 6 passengers. With ADA accessibility, WiFi, DVD and luggage storage, you’ll travel in style. See ad pg. 19 ACTIVITIES ADVENTURE, SPORTS & RECREATION EASY DAY BOWLING 725 Broadway, South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 200-2226 / info@easydaysopo.com easydaysopo.com Easy Day features a unique dining experience with picturesque views of the Fore River. With fantastic food, a 10-lane boutique bowling alley, an all-weather patio, and a private room rental available (capacity: 100 people), our state of the art facility is sure to satisfy any craving.

continued on page 29

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