Visitor's Guide 2015

If you’re looking for quaint New England charm, you couldn’t have picked a better region. Historic buildings abound in these sleepy towns, from lovely old churches to stately libraries. Mills once stood along the rivers—Westbrook can count both the Presumpscot River and the smaller Stroudwater River within its boundaries—turning the flowing water into a source of energy and a fuel for industry. Agriculture was always important in these inland towns, and it remains so to this day. Just stop in at a local orchard to pick some apples or grab a pumpkin and you’ll see what we mean. If Portland is the metropolitan hub of the area, Gorham is the cute little college town. There may not be much nightlife, but those seeking higher education need look no further than the University of Southern Maine, an institution that helps thousands of students advance their careers and pursue their dreams every year. And, as with any college town, the school also enhances the intellectual life of the community. From coffee shop discussions to gallery openings, the influence of the university is felt through- out the town. If classrooms and lecture halls aren’t on your itinerary, you can still feed your mind at the Gorham Historical Society & Museum. Visitors will enjoy the University of Southern Maine Art Galleries, and theater fans can stop inat AcornProductions, where they offer acting classes for chil- dren and adults, or catch a theatrical, dance or musical act at the intimate Westbrook Performing Arts Center. When it comes to outdoor exploring, there are ample choices. There are multiple parks in the area, from the well-groomed and popular Bicentennial Park & Skate Park to the more isolated trails that run along the river. In the winter, ice-skating is a popular pastime, as is cross-country skiing. In the summer, you can take a dip at the public pool in Westbrook, or bring your fishing rods up to Highland Lake. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddle-

ships to port for decades. On a sunny day, you’ll see plenty of kite-flyers enjoying the ocean winds. Take a moment to contemplate the monument to the World War II Liberty Ships which were built on the current park’s site between 1941 and 1945. Finally, before heading out of town, be sure to check out the coffee shops, cafes, and stores in Knightville; business is booming in this lesser-known neighborhood. Or enjoy a fabulous meal just around the corner at Saltwater Grille where the quality of dining is matched by the unobstructed

view of the dramatic city skyline. It’s all just a hop, skip, and a bridge away from the City of Portland. Travel a bit west of Portland and you’ll be surprised at how quickly the sea-soaked air turns cool and green. Touched with the tranquil beauty of inner Maine, yet still within shouting distance of the sea, the towns of G ORHAM and W ESTBROOK are thriving, backed by rich history and packed with character. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

STAY 76 / visitportland.com

THE PRESS HOTEL PORTLAND MAINE

Seven floors. So many stories.

Portland’s First Independent Lifestyle Boutique Hotel

Vintage Cocktails at The Inkwell lobby bar

Award-Winning Chefs at M.C. UNION Restaurant

Array of event space for up to 250

Gallery showcasing Maine artists

Fitness Center and Wi-Fi included

Penthouse and Executive Suites with rooftop patios

Centrally located in the heart of the Downtown Arts, Cultural and Entertainment Districts.

Complimentary Portland Jetport and Amtrak Transportation

Continued on page 78

119 Exchange Street // Portland, Maine 04101 // 800.971.2000 // thepresshotel.com