Visitor's Guide 2022-2023

FIND A TREASURE 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. Find everything under one roof at The Maine Mall in South Portland. Just 15 minutes north of Portland, the picturesque lanes of Freeport’s charming New England village are home to national outlets and local bou tiques. 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. (More on pages 40-44)

GO COASTAL Whether you are drawn to crashing surf on dramatic cliffs, lured by the lapping waves of expansive beaches, or hypnotized by the quiet tides of salt marshes, getting on or around the sea is a must in Greater Portland. Enjoy the ocean from land while dining at waterfront lobster shacks and restaurants, swimming in a cove, strolling along scenic oceanside trails, even reading a book from the comfort of a hotel balcony, beach, or deck with a moaning fog horn in the background. For a sea change in excitement, get out on the water for sailing, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, or island hopping. Enjoy special waterside festivities such as tug boat races, tall-ship regattas, and a holiday parade of lights. (More on pages 27)

PARTY ON Maine’s largest metro area has lots of exciting activities to get the party started–or keep one going. Fine dining amid the region’s celebrated culinary scene is a great way to begin any evening. Then move on to a variety of venues, from small performing arts spaces, to grand concert halls, to theaters offering arts experiences from traditional to avant-garde. Outdoor concerts at Thompson’s Point and Rock Row set the summer nights on fire. Those craving a specialty cocktail, a pounding night on the dance floor, or quiet, romantic banter can choose from dozens of area nightclubs, bars, and music halls. An overnight stay in downtown Portland makes for a quick and safe walk home when it’s time for lights out. (More on pages 9, 22)

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: ROCKY BOTTOM TOURS; TIM GREENWAY; VINCE BRAZEN / STATE THEATRE; VISIT FREEPORT; PORTLAND MUSEUM OF ART

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