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VISIT PORTLAND / 13
PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: JONATHAN REECE; AMY TOLK; CFW PHOTOGRAPHY; TIM GREENWAY/VISIT FREEPORT; COREY TEMPLETON
SHOP AROUND
Nationally renowned designers, gourmet
chocolatiers, local artisans, and farm-to-
table purveyors share downtown store-
fronts with national retailers in this
eclectic city. Poke through shops and
galleries lining the cobblestone streets of
the Old Port. Maine’s largest mall in South
Portland is surrounded by well-known
chains, and the shopping opportunities
extend into neighboring Scarborough.
Just 15 minutes north of Portland, a
charming New England village belies the
many upscale outlets that line Freeport’s
picturesque streets, including the flagship
store of world-famous outdoor outfitter
L.L.Bean, open 24 hours every day, 365
days a year.
(More on pages 50-55)
GO COASTAL
Whether you are drawn to crashing surf on
dramatic cliffs, lured by the lapping waves
of expansive beaches, or hypnotized by
the quiet tides of salt marshes, getting on
or around the sea is de rigueur in Greater
Portland. Enjoy the ocean from land while
dining at waterfront lobster shacks and
restaurants, swimming in a cove, strolling
along scenic oceanside trails, even reading
a book from the comfort of a hotel balcony,
beach, or deck with a moaning fog horn in
the background. For a sea change in
excitement, get out on the water for
sailing, fishing, kayaking, whale watching,
or island hopping. Special waterside
festivities include tug boat races, tall-ship
regattas, and a holiday parade of lights.
(More on pages 20-22, 41)
IN NATURE
Go 10 or 15 minutes in any direction and
you’ll doubt you’re anywhere near Maine’s
largest metro area. Both surrounding and
within Portland, parks and preserves allow
access to the tranquil natural beauty Maine
is renowned for. Pristine country and forest
landscapes lie within striking distance of
the city. Cross-country ski alongside the
ocean. Discover native wildlife and plants
as you canoe through the state’s largest
salt marsh. Tee off at a variety of courses
open to visiting golfers, and pick apples,
pumpkins, and berries at local farms. When
you’re out for a day of shopping, visiting
museums and galleries, or touring historic
sites, you’re never far from places of pure,
scenic beauty. Portland, Maine—Authentic
By Nature.