srettig24 Portland Maine is often overshadowed by Portland Oregon, which keeps Portland Maine the underrated secret gem.
The Harbor & the Hipsters
One of the first things you will notice when you go to Portland Maine is the fresh smell of weed in the air…. not all seaweed in the fresh coastal breeze- if you catch my drift. The second might be the beautiful harbor where lobster fishermen bring in fresh catches. You will undeniably also notice all the hipsters and hippies and some outdoorsmen to boot. Portland has a young hip vibe for a city that was established in 1786!
One of the best things about Portland is the walkable streets in the downtown area and how accessible the city is. In Maine- Pedestrians have the right of way, this makes walking around downtown safe and easy. Portland is also bike friendly; you will see lots of people riding their bikes in bike lanes and on the road throughout the city. The cobblestone streets make Portland feel old but trendy cafes and restaurants keeps the atmosphere feeling young.
While if Portland Maine really does have the most restaurants per capita of any US city is still out for debate, Portland does have many many delicious restaurants. From Lobster to Potato Donuts Portland has staples and novelty treats alike.
While Mainers would never be called friendly by really anyone- including themselves. The city is inviting and has a small town charming feel. Local crowds can be found in the shops catching up with each other. It is very noticeable how inclusive Portland is- with many shops showing supporting LBTQIA+. Given how inclusive and active locals are it is a no brainer that Portland would also be dog friendly. Local businesses often allow dogs inside and you can always spot water bowls on the sideways for thirsty dogs. Another thing that you will notice is the clear efforts of sustainability. On the side walks along side trash cans are recycling bins. In Portland it is clear that environmental consciousness has been an active aspect of society for years and is now a seamless part of everyday life there.
South Portland
South Portland is primarily residential with a cute downtown area and is just about a 5-minute drive from the downtown area; well much longer if there is a boat going under the draw bridge! South Portland has beautiful views of the harbor and offers the best of both worlds city life with the quiet comfort of more suburban areas. South Portland’s is equally bike friendly as downtown Portland!
Portland Head Lighthouse
Portland Head Lighthouse is a must-see stop if visiting Portland but is located in the town of Cape Elizabeth. Cape Elizabeth is beyond South Portland and about a 10-15 minute drive from downtown. The lighthouse was constructed in 1780 at the commission of the General Court of Massachusetts. From the American Revolution to World War Two- Portland Head Lighthouse and the Cape of Elizabeth has been at the forefront of navel protection and armament. The lighthouse is the oldest in Maine and is one of the oldest in the United States. Portland Head Lighthouse is within Fort Williams Park, which is a beautiful place to have a picnic or enjoy a walk or jog.
