Fall, Summer: Great Diamond Island sits in Casco Bay, just of the coast of Portland, Maine’s largest city. This island is a “diamond” shape with breath taking views of the cool Atlantic and a laid back island pace, great for vacationers. This island was one a headquarter for troops through World War II and home to Fort McKinley. The barracks once used to house troops have been redone and renovated to offer visitors places to stay for short or long term vacations. The island is vehicle free/ If you need a mode of transportation once you get on the island both bicycles and kayaks can be rented. The ferry brings guest from Portland to the island. With secluded beaches including the “sea glass beach”, beautiful waterfront picnic sites and miles of trails vistors can get lost in the island’s natural beauty. Great Diamond Island offers a unique vacation experience without cars or cares.
Tag: Fall
Portland Obsevatory: A Birds-Eye View From The Top Of Portland
Fall, Summer, Spring: Looking for something fun to do one afternoon I decided to load everyone in the car and we headed into the center of Portland to check out the Portland Observatory. This unique building resembles a lighthouse and was constructed in 1807 by a local businessmen in a way to alert the city to the arrival of ships by using coded signal flags. After an extensive renovation, this 86 foot structure is once again open to visitors who want to climb the stairs and get a bird’s-eye view of Portland Harbor and the surrounding town. The observatory is unique in that this is one of the only flag signaling observatories left in the United States. While there is not alot to do but climb lots of stairs and enjoy the beautiful views, my family had fun learning about the history of this grand old observatory right here in Portland.
Cumberland Fair: 135 Years And Still Going Strong
Fall: The Cumberland Fair has been part of a Maine fall traidition in the southern portion of the state for over 135 years now. The fair always takes place the last week in September and has been doing year after year. The fair also has hosted for over 20 years the Maine State Pumpkin and Squash weigh-in. Some of these enormous gourds look like they have been given steroids, they are amazing. The grandstands always are host to the fair racing circuit and the sound of cheering fans. The animal barns are full for visitors to browse and discover how cows are milked and sheep are sheered. The petting area allows kids to get up and personal with some of the livestock. As with any fair the event is steeped in tradition and just knowing that for the last 135 Septembers Mainer’s have been celebrating their agricultural history at the Cumberland Fair makes this one special.
Rock Climbing: Unleash The Spiderman In You!
Fall: Indoor rock climbing is a great way to challenge yourself to reach new heights. If you have never rock climbed there are training sessions available for all levels. These specially designed “mock” rock walls offer safety features that you would have if you were climbing the real deal but, in a controlled setting. It is a blast and a great form of exercise. Some facilities such as Maine Rock Gym offers both guided instruction for those who are interested in both indoor and outdoor climbing experiences. As I said before, it does not matter what your skill level is they will work with you. Rock climbing is a great way to boost your confidence and self esteem. They also offer family climbs for families with children between 6 and 12 years old. Why not give it a try, you really have nothing to lose and a lot of fun and new found confidence to gain!
The Great Lost Bear: Good Times Are In The Air
Fall,Winter,Spring & Summer: The Great Lost Bear has been a Portland institution since 1979. The Bear is located about two miles from Old Port and is well worth the journey across town. The Great Lost Bear features an enormous menu with something for everyone. The patrons love their burgers and with over 19 varieties to choose from who wouldn’t! Looking for some taste appetizers to go along with that beer…they have it all. They also have a large vegetarian selection and wicked good desserts. For all you beer lovers, The Bear also features 54 taps with 15 Maine microbreweries making their appearance. The Bear has named one of the top ten beer bars in the United States and one trip in and you will easily see why. It is a great place to meet friends out for the night or just have a casual dinner with a date. Whatever the reason you should definitely check this place out, you won’t be disappointed.