Tag: Summer

Summer,Fall,Winter & Spring: Maine’s largest city, Portland is a wonderful place and rich in history. If you are looking for something to do that just may broaden your horizons, why not spend a day in history. Your tour can start right in the heart of downtown on Congress Street where you will find the statue of Nike, the goddess of Victory on Monument Square. This is the monument for all of Maine’s Soilders & Sailors who have died fighting for this country. Just a few blocks away you will find the Wadworth-Longfellow House where Maine’s famous poet lived and wrote. Close by is the First Parish Church, part of Portland’s Freedom Trail. This historic church was constructed in 1825 and still has the original weathervane from the original wooden structure of the church. The Tate House is where mast agent, George Tate and his family resided. This unique structure was in its time considered to be quite stylish and on the cutting edge of design. Heading towards the Eastern Promenade you will find the Portland Observatory which was constructed in 1807. Its purpose was a maritime signaling observation tower which was used to alert merchants of incoming ships. Next, hop in your car and head toward Cape Elizabeth so you can be sure to see Maine’s most photographed and oldest lighthouses, Portland Head Light. Set on the historical grounds of Fort Williams you can also browse around the park to find the cannon batteries as well as Goddard Mansion. Portland has so many more historic places to see one day in history may not be enough so spend some time in history, it’s a fun and unique thing to do.

Winter,Spring,Summer & Fall: Portland has a thriving arts scene that stems from a history of artist making their mark on this small but, defiantly urban town. The Arts District lines Congress Street down into the Old Port area. There are some amazing galleries that offer great collections of Maine, New England and national artist. In the center of it all is the Portland Museum of Art which is noted as one of the best art museums in New England offering a wide variety of collections and constant changing schedule of special exhibits. If you are looking for a way to experience all that Portland has to offer in the arts world you should plan on taking a self guided trip during one of the monthly First Friday Art Walks. This is a great way to explore some of the local galleries and art studios. One such gallery is located in the heart of the Old Port, Fore Street Gallery. Inside you will find many original works in oil and watercolor created by Maine artist. Fore Street specializes in works of art that revolved around the Maine coast with several paintings of Portland Harbor, Monhegan, Boothbay and Acadia. If you are looking for a gallery which offers a wide variety of mediums than Aucocisco is the place. Located in the center of the arts district on upper Congress Street visitors will find a wide assortment of paintings, photography, 3-D paintings and sculpture. Recently, Aucocisco featured an exhibition of sculpture, Richard VanBuren. His sculptures along with the blue, green color palette was reminiscent of coral reefs that you might find while snorkeling in the warm Carribean. Another great place to check out is Stein Gallery, which specializes in glass works featuring over 100 different artists. I love the glass jewelry that is on display with the unique designs this is one of my favorite stops. Take some time and discover Portland’s art scene, it’s worth the trip!

Winter,Spring,Summer & Fall: If you consider yourself to be a “foodie” and are looking for some great places to eat in Portland, you won’t be disappointed. With the selection you could have a different fare from a different part of the world and never repeat yourself for an entire week. Some of the hotspots in Portland have been around for years and consistently offer the best food available. Street & Co. is one such place. If you are looking for the freshest seafood prepared just about anyway you can imagine than this is the place to go. The selection is huge, the taste is out of this world and the reputation of this restaurant speaks for itself. Another great place to try is Walter’s Cafe on Exchange Street in the heart of the Old Port. The Greek Calamari salad is one of my favorite lunch picks and the dinner menu is creative and eclectic. They have a great cozy atmosphere that is warm and inviting. With a wonderful wine selection and homemade desserts that make your mouth water! A fun place to try if you are looking for Japanese is Fuji Restaurant. They have a huge assortment of sushi rolls and maki rolls. The downstairs is a fun atmosphere where dinner is cooked on tableside hibachi tables. You pick the protein and the chefs prepare it for you right before your eyes. This is a very popular place so you definitely want to make sure you make reservations. If you are in the mood for casual Italian than Vignola’s is the place to go. They offer earthy dishes made with organic ingredients and local meats, seafood and produce. The restaurants atmosphere is hip yet relaxed and the food makes this place top on many diners list of places to go. Portland offers a wide selection of fine, fun and casual eatting establishments it all depends on what you are in the mood for!

Winter,Spring,Summer & Fall: Looking for fun things to do with kids in the Portland area? Portland is full of great things for families to do both inside and out. The Children’s Museum is always a big hit with several learn by doing exhibits. The kids will love the interactive TV studio and being at the controls of the rocket ship. Another great place to visit is the Southworth Planetarium on the University of Southern Maine campus. They offer a whole host of programs that cater to all ages and have a great matinee schedule for the younger crowd. The Portland Public Library and their children’s room is always a big hit. Beside a huge assortment on children’s books they offer an event schedule which includes artist, performers and arts and craft days. If it’s time outside your kids are yearning for there is Spring Point Lighthouse in South Portland that’s a must do. Walking out on the breakwater to reach the lighthouse is always a fun adventure. In addition to a great sandy beach, there is also Fort Prebble which can be explored and enjoyed by the whole family. Another great outdoor venue is Deering Oaks Park. There is entertainment in the park, an ice cream stand, wading pool and great duck pond with paddle boats for visitors to enjoy also, don’t forget the playground! A stroll around Back Cove can definitely burn some energy and after you could stop by Payson Park and play a game of Frisbee or baseball on the fields overlooking Back Cove. Portland is a great place to take your family and with so many great activities to choose from it will easily become one of your kids favorite destination spots.