Portland, Maine is all about spectacular landscapes, lighthouses, lobsters and the list goes on. The Old Port district is a good starting point for exploring Portland by foot and by ferry. Cobblestone streets and ornate Victorian brick buildings extend along the waterfront and wharves with restaurants, microbreweries, art galleries, specialty shops and harbor activities galore. After a stroll, hop a ferry or a lectured boat tour of the Portland waterfront and through the islands in Casco Bay and Bailey Island. Get a taste of lobstering aboard a working lobster boat like Lucky Catch Lobstering. Don boots and pants and try your hand at pulling the traps. Purchase your catch at wholesale prices. Climb the 103-steps to the top of the Portland Observatory Maritime Signal Tower. The view is worth the climb. Built in 1807, the signal tower was used to identify approaching ships and is the country’s last remaining signal tower. Visit the home where Poet Henry W. Longfellow spent his childhood. It’s easy to see why he described Portland as “a jewel by the sea.” Southworth Planetarium features impressive astronomy and laser light shows. The Portland Public Market tempts the taste buds with a cornucopia of delectable Maine specialty foods. Pack a picnic and head for a memorable day along the Portland’s dramatic coastline.
The Greater Portland and Cape Elizabeth area offers outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities. Fort Williams State Park and the Portland Head Lighthouse are the number one attraction in Portland. Commissioned by George Washington in 1791, Portland Head is the most photographed lighthouse in Maine. It’s easy to see why. Huge waves crash against the spectacular rugged coastline and the pristine white lighthouse towers over the landscape. Nearby Crescent Beach State Park is ideal for beachcombing. Continue on the Prouts Neck and visit Winslow Homer’s Studio. Two Lights State Park with 41 acres of rocky headlands with sweeping views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean and two lighthouses is the perfect spot to stroll along the beach or bluffs. When exercise and fresh sea air work up an appetite dig into succulent lobster or fried clams on the bluff at Two Lights Lobster Shack, a Portland dining tradition. There are surprises and pleasures around every turn in Portland. More ...
