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VISIT PORTLAND / 51
DO INSIDE
Mainers get energized when
snow starts flying, but if the
weather has you climbing the
walls, you may want to try
that out for real. Challenge
yourself vertically at Evo Rock &
Fitness or Salt Pump Climbing
Co—both have activities for
kids of all ages. Maine Indoor
Karting’s track is designed
for thrilling speed but there’s
an indoor mini-golf course
for those too young to race.
And there’s no shortage of
bowling lanes for hours of
family fun. Try out laser tag at
Spare Time Entertainment for
heart-pounding action.
DO HISTORY
The Phoenix is an apt symbol
for Portland, which rose from
ashes like the fabled bird to
rebuild after being destroyed
several times by fire, the
last time in 1866. Greater
Portland cherishes its older
architecture and history
hiding in plain sight. Museum
homes exhibit centuries of
living history throughout
the region, while Maine
Historical Society and other
preservation efforts honor our
legacy to ensure an authentic
experience, right down to our
cobblestone streets and gas
lamps [p. 32-33]
DO ROMANCE
Plan a romantic getaway in
February at an inn or an
intimate bed and breakfast,
and share in the locals’ annual
amazement when we awake
to find our city once again
bedecked in paper hearts.
Portland has a secret valen-
tine (or two, or three) that
has kept the city festooned
for more than four decades.
Many inns offer special
Valentine packages, such as
wine and chocolate extras,
and you’re sure to have a
mouth-watering dinner at
one of our many award-
winning restaurants.
DO NOTHING
Sometimes the most refresh-
ing break is one in which you
strike the to-do lists and just
unwind. Stretch your legs
on wide expanses of empty
beach while the crashing surf
washes away your cares.
Pamper yourself at a day spa
or spa resort and have an
elegant meal at an award-
winning restaurant. Curl up
by a fireside and read a book
while the winds howl outside.
As much as there is to do in
Greater Portland, we’ll spoil
you rotten with relaxation if
that’s your need. Leave the
laundry at home.
FROM LEFT: EVO ROCK + FITNESS; VICTORIA MANSION; PORTLAND REGENCY HOTEL + SPA; INN BY THE SEA/PETER OGILVIE