The Portland ME is largest city in Maine sits on a coast of pure beauty. Sandy coves are perfect for summer getaways. Downtown streets feature alfresco restaurants and beer gardens.
Enjoy a variety of world-renowned dishes in different styles. Sample seared duck accented with cherries and fennel at Evo,Prentice Hospitality’s new waterfront restaurant. Or let chef Thomas Takashi Cooke lead you through family-style omakase at Izakaya Minato.
History
The city’s history encompasses a long list of tragedies and triumphs. War,massacres,pestilence,a devastating bombardment,economic hard times and riots have all been part of the Portland story. Yet it is also a place where people have found their way to success,including literary figures such as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and John Neal,artists,architects,photographers,business leaders and many others.
The city’s diverse population has contributed greatly to the region’s rich culture and cosmopolitan character. The next chart shows high level demographic data for Portland residents including citizenship,immigration and year of entry of non citizens. It can be used for research. The map also shows the areas in Portland with the highest concentrations for certain age groups. This is a valuable tool for businesses and organizations looking to target specific populations.
Beaches
Portland’s sandy beaches are popular with swimmers and those who enjoy sunbathing. Families enjoy exploring the area’s picturesque beaches and sand dunes.
For swimming and boogie boarding,head to Ship Cove Beach,where calm surf meets flat sand along the base of cliffs. This beach is also popular amongst locals who enjoy watching the passing ferries,freighters,cruise ships,and kayakers.
Higgins Beach,located alongside a quiet beach community,offers a relaxing atmosphere with ample parking,a municipal lot within a reasonable walk to the water’s edge,and a family-owned inn that serves an included breakfast for guests. This beach is popular with swimmers,as well as those who enjoy walking along the shore to find seaglass and seashells. Crescent Beach State Park is another option,a mile-long sandy beach in Cape Elizabeth that provides extraordinary views of Richmond Island and Seal Rocks.
Nightlife
Portland offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors. There’s something to suit everyone,from live music to comedy. Kickstand Comedy,for example,is a great way to enjoy the best comedians in the city. This non-profit hosts community events and weekend showcases.
Maps Bar is a great option for those who want a more intimate atmosphere. The basement bar is decorated with pub-style furniture and maps on the walls. The ambiance is super chill and the drinks are pretty good,too. The bar also offers a variety of vinyl records,from Nirvana to Crowded House. It’s a great place to relax with friends. You can even grab a bite to eat at this location.
Shopping
Portland is not only a great place to shop,but its booming restaurant scene has received rave reviews. Locals can find unique shops that sell handmade goods and tchotchkes from around the world.
Something’s Fishy is a fun shop that makes you feel like you’re on the deck of a ship. Clothing,jewelry,and home goods are all available in the shop.
Browse boutiques and stores with local brands in the Pearl District. South Portland’s DICK’S Sporting Goods has a huge selection of footwear,workout gear and golf gear for any game. View our South Portland shopping directory. The Portland outlet malls at Cascade Station and Freeport Village Station also offer a wide range of name brand shops.
Dining
Perched where Maine fractures into a scattering of islands and inlets,the state’s largest city packs a cosmopolitan clutch of restaurants and bars. Amid the sea air,diners can indulge in lobster rolls and seafood chowder–or explore the far more diverse menus here,which run the gamut from pan-Asian noodles to Belgian fries to Southern barbecue.
The two-story Central Provisions is one of the most sophisticated eateries in town,where upscale appetizers and entrees like shrimp po’ boys,pork macaroni and cheese,and shio ramen are served alongside craft beer and cocktails. Venn + Maker’s dip-dyed harvest baskets are the perfect way to store your newly found treasures.
