Portland
Portland is much more than the peaceful coastal communities in Maine that come to mind when you think of rocky shores, boats in the wind, and tons of lobster. Although some may not consider Maine's largest city, which has a population of around 69,000, to be enormous, it boasts all the amenities of a thriving metropolis. Yes, Portland has classic Maine landscape and a bustling waterfront with a wide variety of mouthwatering seafood, but it has also distinguished itself in other ways.
Travelers are consistently impressed and surpassed by the city's exceptional commitment to the arts, renowned food scene, and extraordinary preservation and redevelopment of its historic Old Port. There are numerous museums, James Beard Award-winning chefs frequent the downtown area's restaurants, and independent stores coexist on the same streets as big-box stores.
The city stands out from the crowd for its distinctively Maine characteristics. You may easily access secluded beaches on island shorelines, century-old lighthouses that are wonderfully set on coastal bluffs, and delectable lobster rolls. The city was originally the biggest port in all of 17th-century New England, making it its primary function. Additionally, it serves as the ideal starting place for some of Maine's best whale watching. Whatever perspective you choose to have of Portland, its allure and easiness will undoubtedly heal the soul.
Rankings:
- #1 in Best Weekend Getaways in New England
- #1 in Best Places to Visit in Maine
- #3 in Best Places to Visit in June
- #4 in Best Places to Visit in August
Location: Maine
