If you’re planning a trip to Maine, be sure to visit us at our retail store based in Freeport. We’d love to see photos of your trip, too — share them with us on Twitter, Facebook or our blog.
We hope to see you in Vacationland soon!
Alive at 5 Concert Series“This free concert series runs each Thursday from July through August in Monument Square.” — Kari, Monogramming
Greek Festivals in Portland & Saco “Definitely hit these two festivals if you love Greek food — one year I went to all three (there’s also one in Lewiston!). The ‘yia-yias’ (Greek grandmothers) cook for weeks preparing such delicacies as baklava, moussaka, gyros and so on. Both festivals include traditional music, and often dancing, too! Great activity for families, too.” — Danielle, Copywriter
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Portland Art WalkHeld on the first Friday of every month from March through December, the art walk is designed to introduce a wider audience to Portland’s artist community. The art walk, which features galleries run by many Maine artists, is free of charge and open to the public. — Danielle, Copywriter
Maine Maple Sunday“My favorite annual event is our statewide Maine Maple Sunday held during one of the last weekends in March. That’s when all of the Maine sugarhouses are opened to the public. No better place to be than inside a cozy sugarhouse on a brisk near-spring morning, warmed by the wood fire used to gently boil the maple sap, smoke rising high out of the roof as the sap slowly boils down to make the sweetest syrup around. Some sugarhouses offer more than just syrup, including maple candy, maple COTTON candy (you gotta try this), powdered maple sugar, homemade cheeses and other locally produced assortments. Most offer small samples of locally made vanilla ice cream with fresh syrup poured on top. Best of all, many sugarhouses hold outdoor pancake breakfasts with their own fresh syrup — a true Maine tradition! Check out all the fun at www.mainemapleproducers.com/.It’s a sweet trip!” — Jules, Data Entry Assistant
Open Lighthouse Day“Not to be missed! This is the one day when all of Maine’s lighthouses are open to the public.” — Kari, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of Common Ground Fair
The Common Ground Country Fair“This fair is located in beautiful Unity, Maine. Situated in the mid-coast region near the islands, it promotes local agriculture, crafts, livestock, etc. The three-day event usually runs around the end of September, just in time for the fall harvest. With an abundance of food, activities, and entertainment, it is sure to be a hit with all ages. You can also purchase locally grown and harvested produce to use in your own home.” — Alexandra, Customer Service
Photo courtesy of Yarmouth Clam Festival
Yarmouth Clam FestivalA fun family event, the Yarmouth Clam Festival features a parade, clam shucking contest, professional bike race, and, of course, tons of seafood! “While you're at the fair, make sure to get some of Bob's Famous Fries — they come on a huge plate big enough to feed five!” — Kari, Monogramming
Bagel Central“If you’re in the Bangor area, a stop at Bagel Central is a must. The homemade bagels, breads, and pastries are baked fresh daily, and the breakfast sandwiches are amazing. I’m a fan of the Egg, Lox, and Onion Bagelwich, made on your choice of bagel. Delicious!” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Great Impasta“For great Italian, I love the Great Impasta. The chef was trained in Italy, and the dishes are unique.” Make sure to get here early — this is one of Brunswick’s most popular restaurants and seating fills up quickly! — Dave, QA
Photo courtesy of Waterfront Restaurant
The Waterfront Restaurant “Located right on the water in beautiful Camden, Maine, the Waterfront Restaurant features fresh seafood and picturesque views. The Lobster Linguine is delectable and filled with succulent lobster.” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Photo courtesy of Laura DeMerchant
The Lobster Shack at Two LightsRecently featured on the Food Network, the Lobster Shack at Two Lights boasts “amazing views of Casco Bay, plus the best lobster roll ever!” — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Photo courtesy of Krista’s Restaurant
Krista’s Restaurant“A great restaurant for Sunday brunch, whether on your way to the White Mountains or before spending a leisurely morning antiquing in Cornish. My favorite dish is their eggs Benedict — which can be made with your choice of ham, bacon, or sausage.” — Norma, VP Merchandise
Jordan’s Snack BarFor “the best small fried clams in Maine,” check out Jordan’s Snack Bar. This family-owned eatery recently celebrated 30 years in business. Known for their seafood, sandwiches, and ice cream, this casual restaurant even has a newly renovated playground for kids. — Ryan, Wholesale
Petrillo’sCraving pizza, chowder, or salad? Petrillo’s has been voted “Freeport’s Best Pizza” and “Number 1 Chowder” in the Maine Boat Show and Flavors of Freeport. They also have “the best Caesar salad ever!” — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
The Robinhood Free Meetinghouse“If nothing but the finest dining prepared by a master chef will do, this is the place to go. Every dish is a unique gourmet experience, from appetizers to dessert, all in the setting of an authentic colonial meetinghouse built in 1855.” — Dave, QA
Cole FarmsFor “good home-cooked meals and great prices,” visit Cole Farms, a casual restaurant/diner that’s been in business for over 50 years. — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Photo courtesy of Diamond’s Edge
Diamond’s EdgeA short boat ride away from Portland, Maine, Great Diamond Island was once home to Fort McKinley, built in the late 1800s. Now renovated, this historic fort is a popular destination for tourists. Diamond’s Edge restaurant, built in the former Quartermaster’s storehouse, features elegant fine dining and delectable seafood. “I spent the afternoon on Great Diamond and had a wonderful time exploring the island.” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Graziano’s“Very good, reasonably priced Italian dining. It’s also family-friendly.” Celebrating 41 years of serving fine Italian cuisine, this family-owned restaurant specializes in fresh sauces, breads, seafood, and, of course, pasta. — Dave, QA
Perkins Cove Lobster Shack“For a great seaside afternoon and an incredible bowl of chowder or a great lobster roll, venture to Perkins Cove in Ogunquit to the Lobster Shack. You’ll find the owners there working every day brewing up the best chowder I’ve ever had. After you’ve stuffed your face with seafood delight, stroll the many shops and walk along the seaside trail for beautiful oceanside views.” — Laura, E-Commerce Manager
Photo courtesy of Brian Boru
Brian Boru“In search of a good Irish Pint owned by an authentic Irishman? Visit Brian Boru in the Old Port. With a full menu including a few Irish specialties as well as standard pub fare, you won’t be disappointed. They make a great bloody mary, and pour a wonderful pint of Guinness. As well, you’ll likely find the proprietor of Geary’s there on occasion, and the price on a Geary’s pint goes down when he’s at the bar!” — Jessica, Jr Web Designer
Photo courtesy of Browne Trading Co.
Browne Trading Co.Providing top restaurants and home kitchens with fresh fish and fine caviar, Browne Trading Co. offers a wide variety of high-quality seafood. This family-owned company has been in business for over a decade, and has earned accolades from chefs and food publications. “The seafood is great!” — Kari, Monogramming
Flatbread Co.For wood-fired pizza topped with fresh, local ingredients, you can’t go wrong with Flatbread Co. The restaurant has “delicious specials every night. Try their salad with goat cheese — so good — and their homemade lemonade!” — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Fore Street Restaurant“A fabulous atmosphere and offers a mouth-watering menu. An old brick building with cobblestone streets, and a block away from the waterfront, this is quintessential Portland Maine charm and appeal. I love the aromas from the wood-burning brick ovens, and fresh local Maine farmers’ vegetables, seafood, meats and game being served. You can't go wrong with the food or the great service.” — Deb, CEO, Cuddledown Marketing, LLC
Photo courtesy of Grace
Grace“A gorgeous historic church renovated to serve the public with fabulous food and drinks. A hip place for happy hour and live entertainment with an amazing atmosphere featuring high ceilings, stained glass windows and two levels of open dining. The food and service are wonderful.” — Deb, CEO, Cuddledown Marketing, LLC
Photo courtesy of Coffee By Design
Coffee By Design“By far the best coffee I’ve had in Maine. Handcrafted and micro roasted, this coffee is brewed to perfection. They also have a great selection of fair trade and organic coffees. Try ‘Rebel Blend,’ a full-bodied, flavorful dark roast.” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Dry Dock Nestled in the heart of the Old Port, this restaurant/bar sits on the water and has plenty of outdoor seating overlooking the harbor. “If you’re looking for a great view, check out Dry Dock.” — Kari, Monogramming
Hot SuppaLocated in Portland’s picturesque West End, Hot Suppa offers up “great Cajun food.” Try the Fried Green Tomato BLT, Mac & Cheese, and the Congo Tuna Melt. — Katie, Creative Assistant
J’s Oyster Bar“A great place to go in downtown Portland if you want an authentic fisherman’s bar experience, plus the food is great. Try J’s Seafood Casserole — it has big chunks of lobster and shellfish.” — Chris, CEO
Katie Made Bakery“For the best cupcakes and even better scones, visit Katie Made Bakery. More than just a bakery, Katie Made offers soups and sandwiches daily (I’m particularly fond of their chicken salad) to eat in or take out. Katie’s treats are true bakery delights that are bursting with flavor, not sugar!” — Laura, E-Commerce Manager
King of the Roll Located in Portland’s West End, King of the Roll features unique sushi specials, such as the decadent Casco Bay Roll, at reasonable prices. The fish is fresh and delicious, and “they have a great teriyaki salmon!” — Christina, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of Local 188
Local 188“A fantastic and hip place to meet for drinks, appetizers or just have dinner. The food is eclectic and delightful and the wait staff, quirky. I like sitting at the bar and watching the kitchen do its thing, but there are also cozy couches and intimate tables depending on your dining company.” — Katie, Creative Assistant
Local Sprouts“A very unique restaurant; the local sprouts cooperative serves delicious food made from fresh, local, and organic Maine ingredients. Not only that — the food is highly affordable! For around $7.50, you can get a free-range hamburger topped with organic local cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes on fresh homemade bread with a side of hand-cut roasted Maine potatoes and a beverage. For vegetarians, there are always alternatives, like a hearty vegan BLT with tempeh marinated in handmade barbeque sauce on thick-cut toasted bread.
Local Sprouts offers a diner-style counter for seating, along with an array of comfy couches and ‘regular’ tables. They also offer free wi-fi and a bookshelf stocked with reading materials from the daily paper to novels to children’s books. Local Sprouts is open late for the First Friday artwork, and displays an ever-changing array of local art at all times. They also have live music on a regular basis, and are available for event catering.” — Megan, Web Content Admin
MiyakeMiyake, nestled in Portland’s West End, boasts a variety of unique, flavorful Japanese dishes. Dinners are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is cozy and modern. Miyake also has “the best ramen!” — Roe, Customer Service
Po’ Boys and PicklesFor “the best fried pickles,” check out this funky Cajun-style restaurant. Recently voted “best sandwich/wrap” in the Portland Phoenix Best of Portland 2011 poll, the fried oyster po’ boy and pulled pork sandwiches are not to be missed. — Ryan, Wholesale
Portland Lobster Company“Delicious food, beautiful views, and reasonable prices. Try the ‘Seaburger’ — homemade clam cakes with tartar sauce on a toasted bun. They also frequently have live music outside on the dock.” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Sapporo“If you like Japanese food, and freshly-caught fish from right off the boat, I like Sapporo on Commercial Street. Their sushi, notably their Maine Lobster Roll, is excellent quality and very tasty!” — Danielle, Copywriter
Standard Baking Co. “A trip to Portland is incomplete without breakfast at Standard Baking Co. Tucked away quietly below Fore St Restaurant, this bakery is trained in the French method of pastry making and boasts some of the most amazing breads served in almost all of Portland’s fine restaurants. Plus, we get to benefit from leftovers on occasion as we have an inside connection at Cuddledown.” — Laura, E-Commerce Manager
Saltwater Grille“Gorgeous city views and fabulous food. Best view of Portland skyline.” — Kristina, Graphic Designer
The SteakhouseFor “the best steak in Maine,” take a trip to The Steakhouse in Wells. “The food is outstanding, and has been this way for a long time. Make sure to get there early, though. It opens at 4:00 and by 4:30, the line is wrapped around the building.” — Roe, Customer Service
Fajita Grille “Best Mexican food. Don’t miss the genuine mariachi band on Thursday evenings.” — Kari, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of Le Garage Restaurant
Le Garage Restaurant“This is a great place to experience the combination of fine dining and an excellent location on the harbor shore, while getting up the coast and away from the bustle of the Portland area. One of my favorites is the lamb kabob.” — Dave, QA
Bruce’s BurritosThis new Mexican restaurant has “the best burrito around!” — Megan, Web Content Admin
Clayton’s CaféThis family-owned business is known for their homemade baked goods, take-home dinners, and “awesome sandwiches” made with freshly-baked bread. — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Photo courtesy of Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor and Acadia National ParkA wonderful place to hike, bike, and sightsee. Bar Harbor offers a bit of everything, from music festivals and campgrounds to cross country skiing in the winter. Acadia National Park is perfect for scenic driving and biking, with over 27 miles of paved motor roads. Bar Harbor also features local retailers and great restaurants, including Geddy’s, “a great local bar with live music and great food.“ — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor "Bar Harbor and Acadia are so picturesque and perfect for medium-difficulty hiking." — Dave, QA and Gwen, Warehouse
BucksportLocated on Maine’s coast, Bucksport has a rich heritage. The town is home to Fort Knox, a National Historic Landmark, built in 1844 to defend the Penobscot River. “Bucksport is a great town; it’s one of my favorite places to go in Maine.” — Nick, Warehouse
Fort WilliamsA must-see for tourists, Fort Williams is home to Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine and one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. A beautiful place to walk, sled, or cross country ski, Fort Williams offers picturesque views of Casco Bay and is a perfect picnic spot. — Randy, Warehouse
Two Lights State Park“I love to pick up lunch at one of the great gourmet sandwich places in Portland and go down there and sit at one of the many picnic tables overlooking the rocky cliffs tumbling down to the crashing waves. You’ll often see photographers and people with their easels painting the wild Maine oceanscape.” — Anna, Customer Service and Danielle, Copywriter
Caratunk Remote and beautiful, Caratunk is located on the east side of the Kennebec River and is a popular destination for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and whitewater rafting. “I love it up there.” — Diana, Warehouse
Photo courtesy of Maine Huts and Trails
Maine Huts and TrailsThis new, year-round adventure destination is located in the beautiful and wild western mountains region of Maine. Currently, they offer 30 miles of trail corridor and three full-services lodges spaced a day hike or ski apart from one another. During the winter, trails are groomed for both classic and skate cross country skiing. There are also miles of un-groomed snowshoe trails around each hut. During the spring, summer and fall the trails are available for hiking and mountain biking. In time, their system of backcountry eco-lodges connected by people-powered trails will stretch nearly 200 miles from near the New Hampshire border to the Moosehead Lake region. — Jake, Wholesale
Cousins IslandSettled as early as 1628, beautiful Cousins Island is located off the coast of Yarmouth, ME. “I grew up on Cousins Island and love it there.” — Eric, Warehouse
Casco BayOne of Portland’s most popular and picturesque places, Casco Bay is “great for fishing and sailing, and has nice beaches and coves. My favorite cove is at Jewel Island.” — Gerhard, IT
Jewel Island in Casco BayA tiny island in Casco Bay, Jewel Island is a popular spot for walking and kayaking. The island lore also draws visitors. “Check out the historic homes on the island and the WWII bunkers, said to be haunted!” — Nick, Warehouse
Gilsland Farm/Maine Audubon“A great place for families,” Gilsland Farm, headquarters of Maine Audubon, features walking trails, an environmental center, nature workshops, and even camps for kids. — Kari, Monogramming
Cold River CampgroundPeaceful and rustic, Cold River Campground is located in the Evans Notch area of the White Mountains, on the Maine/New Hampshire border. “The drive to Cold River Campground — on Route 113 — is also really beautiful and great for leaf peeping in the fall.” — Kari, Monogramming
Jockey Cap Trail“A short but steep trail in Fryeburg. From the top, there’s a monument that shows the silhouette of the White Mountains. This location is famous for Molly Ockett, a local Native American healer from the Pequawket tribe.” — Miriam, Customer Service
Reid State ParkMy favorite place in Maine is Reid State Park, hands down. I love that it has a family friendly sandy beach area as well as a rocky coastline for more adventurous people. — Brooke, Merchandise Assistant and Dave, QA
Photo courtesy of Maine Wildlife Park
Maine Wildlife Park“I love that the animals in the exhibits are all animals that can no longer live in the wild (e.g., it’s not like a typical “zoo” where healthy animals are taken out of their natural habitats). For the most part, the animals are Maine natives & it’s a great way for kids to explore the wilder side of Maine animals in a safe, educational environment.” — Brooke, Merchandise Assistant
Moosehead LakeThe largest lake east of the Mississippi contained in one state, Moosehead is the ideal place to kayak, canoe, fly fish, or relax on a scenic cruise. “I love watching wildlife here and having cookouts with my family.” — Gwen, Warehouse
Quoddy Head State ParkLocated on the easternmost point of land in the U.S., this state park features hiking trails, bogs, a diverse habitat for rare plants, and the brightly striped West Quoddy Head Light. It is also the first location in the U.S. to see the sunrise. “One of my favorite places in Maine.” — Diana, Warehouse
Mackworth IslandWith trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, Mackworth Island is a wonderful place for an afternoon getaway. “Be sure to check out the fairy houses along the pathway!” — Kari, Monogramming
Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin“For the serious hiker!” Maine’s iconic Mount Katahdin offers spectacular views and over 200 miles of trails. Camp in beautiful Baxter State Park, where it’s not uncommon to see moose and other wildlife, before hitting the trails. — Dave, QA
Mount Desert IslandHome to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, beautiful Mount Desert Island has “extensive hiking trails throughout. Cadillac Mountain has an awesome view and is the first place in the U.S. to see the sun rise!” — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Photo courtesy of Pineland Farms
Pineland Farms“Located in the rolling hills, Pineland Farms is a 5,000 acre working farm and educational and recreational venue that welcomes visitors to enjoy its beautiful rural landscape. Pineland maintains 25 km of well groomed Nordic ski trails, a skating pond and a sledding hill. The visitor center, with its view of Mount Washington, is the perfect place for a quick lunch between activities.” — Meg, Customer Service
Maine Kayak“For a great weekend activity, rent a kayak and go explore!” — Kristina, Graphic Designer
Photo courtesy of Asticou& Thuya Gardens
Asticou & Thuya Gardens“Visitors to Mount Desert Island may be so focused on visiting Thunder Hole, Sand Beach and other more popular and well-known areas of Acadia National Park that they miss out on these beautiful local gems. Asticou Azalea Garden and Thuya Garden and Lodge were designed and built by island resident Charles Savage in 1956. Asticou Garden features a unique blend of native plants styled in the manner of a traditional Japanese garden with trails and stone bridges meandering along waterways through sand gardens, sculptures, and beautiful foliage with the occasional stone bench strategically placed for visitors to sit and admire the landscape. Thuya Garden and Lodge is perched atop Eliot Mountain and overlooks Northeast Harbor. It can be reached either via the Terraced Trail, which zigzags up the mountain and has several scenic lookouts where visitors can stop to rest and enjoy the view, or via a short road which lands one directly at the Lodge parking lot. Parking is limited both at the base and top of the mountain. The garden itself is gorgeous, but the walk up the mountain, with its stunning views, is just as enjoyable.” — Megan, Web Content Admin
Popham Beach“This is one of Maine’s best beaches. It has a long stretch of sandy beach, ideal for those who enjoy walking along the shore, and it is relatively quiet.” — Dave, QA
Casco Bay Lines“My favorite scenic cruise is the Mailboat Run. It goes to each of the major islands in Casco Bay and is a great way to see ones you wouldn't normally see.” — Kari, Monogramming
East End Beach“A quiet and picturesque spot,” the East End beach is also dog friendly. From the beach, you can also access the Portland Trails system as well as the Eastern Promenade. — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Crescent Beach“Most people only know about the sandy beach portion of Crescent, but there are some excellent hiking trails around it.” — Kari, Monogramming
Lucky Catch Cruises“Ever wondered what lobstering is really about? Take a lobster boat tour with Captain Tom on the Lucky Catch lobster boat. I love this trip and have done it many times, and I live here! Great idea for parties too.” — Laura, E-Commerce Manager
Photo courtesy ofPortland Schooner
Portland Schooner Company“There are various places that do these cruises all up and down the coast, but I’ve been on the ship Bagheera twice, and it’s a great ride. Fun, easygoing crew, and the last time, we hired the boat just for our family for my parents’ anniversary. My Dad, being a sailor, wanted them to let the sails out, so they were happy to oblige, and in the stiff breeze, we were pretty much flying along out past Peaks Island in Casco Bay! We brought our own lunch and drinks, and had a great afternoon — highly recommend it!” — Danielle, Copywriter
Photo courtesy of Portland Trails
Portland Trails“Portland Trails is a great resource for finding wonderful walks and hikes in the greater Portland area, such as the newly-constructed Bayside trail that runs through the city.” — Kari, Monogramming
Riverton Trolley ParkThe Riverton Trolley Park opened in 1896 and was home to an outdoor amphitheater, croquet court, boat rides, a trout pond, and even a casino. Today, the park features “a picturesque trail running along a creek,” and is a great place to cross country ski in the winter. — Jake, Warehouse
Bradbury Mountain State Park“An excellent spot for light hiking.” This is a great hike for families; pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view at the summit. — Dave, QA and Kari, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of About.com
Height of Land“The best view in Maine.” A beautiful spot that can be easily reached by car, this gorgeous overlook is found while driving north toward Rangeley on Maine’s State Route 17. — Dave, QA
Rangeley Lake“Scenic, and great for fishing and camping.” Located in Western Maine, Rangeley offers outdoor activities for all seasons, from skiing on Saddleback Mountain in the winter to trout and salmon fishing during the spring and summer — Dave, QA and Jen, Warehouse
Pleasant Hill Disc Golf CourseIf you’re into Frisbee (disc) golf, this is the place to go in Maine. Located on 40 acres of a former traditional golf course, it features both open and wooded areas, as well as a few water hazards. “This is an awesome place; in fact, I think I’m going here after work today!” — Randy, Warehouse
Bug Light Park“I like to drive to Bug Light Park while taking in the ocean view and watching the ferries.” — Rhi, Retail Store Supervisor
Greenbelt TrailPart of the East Coast Greenway, a trail system running from Canada to Florida, the Greenbelt Trail is a paved path that is “an excellent place to run and bike.” — Jake, Warehouse
Willard BeachTucked away in South Portland, Willard Beach “isn’t packed,” making it a relaxing spot to enjoy the ocean. — Christina, Monogramming
Smiling Hill Farm“This is a great spot to go cross country skiing in the winter. The trails are groomed and the grounds are beautiful. During the summer, the barnyard is open, and it is a really fun place for kids. They also have homemade dairy treats like ice cream and freshly bottled milk in fun flavors like blueberry!” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Sunday River Ski Resort“We are blessed with several great places to ski in Maine, but I like Sunday River due to its 1½ hour proximity to Portland and huge variety of trails ranging from great ‘bunny’ trails, to some serious expert trails with names like ‘White Heat’ and ‘Agony.’ As I’m a ‘blue’ intermediate skier, I love that there are plenty of great trails for me to ski on, and several lodges to stop at and sip a cup of hot cocoa or enjoy a great microbrew. If you're ‘from away,’ the resort itself has a wide variety of nice places to stay, and nearby Bethel is an attractive New England small town.” — Danielle, Copywriter
Inn by the RiverInn by the River is a full-service inn. Whitewater rafting trips, fishing, hiking and hunting trips leave daily from the Inn. Each guest room is individually decorated in a charming country style and has a full private bath. There is also a two bedroom housekeeping apartment that sleeps 12 people available for lodging. Inn by the River's restaurant is open on select evenings for your fine dining pleasure. The Inn’s Pub is available every evening for your enjoyment. — Danielle, Copywriter
Photo courtesy of Northern Outdoors Resort
Northern Outdoors Adventure ResortMaine’s premier adventure resort is a true four-season vacation resort, with something for everyone! Raft New England’s wildest whitewater on the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers. Fish for feisty smallmouth bass in areas so good, you’re guaranteed to catch fish. Explore hundreds of miles of trails on your ATV (guided tours). Cruise on well groomed trails through spectacular scenery by snowmobile (sled rentals and guided tours). Savor great food and fresh ales brewed on site, in the Kennebec River Pub and Brewery. After it all, relax in your lakeside cabin or guest house. Since 1976, this resort has been providing great Maine vacation getaways. — Megan, Web Content Admin
10th Mountain Ski ClubThe Tenth Mountain Ski Club is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote healthy lifestyles and economic growth by providing world-class facilities, trails, and events for area residents, athletes, and visitors. The club was the host site for the 2011 IBU World Cup Biathlon held from February 10th–13th. — Meg, Customer Service
Maine Maritime MuseumDedicated to Maine’s seafaring history, the Maine Maritime Museum features ten acres of galleries and exhibits, including a life-size sculpture of the largest wooden sailing vessel ever built. You can also watch wooden boats being constructed and view rarely seen artifacts in the collection vaults. “There is so much to see here; it's fascinating.” — Nick, Warehouse
Evergreen Cemetery“Beautiful in the fall, Evergreen has headstones from the 1600s and 1700s. It’s also a neat place to do gravestone rubbings.” — Kari, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of First Parish Church
First Parish Church“My favorite historical monument. Check out the cannonball in the chandelier chain-shot at us by the British. You can also find family pews with names like Greeley and Longfellow.” — Kari, Monogramming
Portland Children’s Museum“I’m a huge fan of the Portland Children’s Museum (I’ve got a 3 year old who constantly asks to use the life-size fire truck). They’ve got a wide variety of pleasantly fun and interactive activities for children of all ages.” — Brooke, Merchandise Assistant
Portland Museum of ArtFor such a small city, the Portland Museum of Art has an impressive art collection. In its three core buildings, are housed works of art by American artists such as Winslow Homer, Andrew Wyeth and Rockwell Kent, as well as fine European masters such as Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Pablo Picasso. Throughout the year, they also host lectures, art classes, concerts, and much more. The Boston Globe rated the PMA “one of the best medium-size museums in New England.” And they’ve recently restored and opened the Winslow Homer studio (where he painted most of his well-known works) at Prouts Neck, Scarborough, Maine. — Danielle, Copywriter
Photo courtesy of Portland Observatory Museum
Portland Observatory Museum“A neat place for tourists and locals alike,” the Portland Observatory Museum has been open since 1807 and is the only remaining historic maritime signal station in the United States. — Kari, Monogramming
The Wadsworth-Longfellow HouseHome to Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow, this historic brick house is the oldest standing structure on the Portland peninsula. It is also almost entirely furnished with items belonging to the Wadsworth and Longfellow families. “This is such a beautiful historic site.” — Jessica, Jr Web Designer
CuddledownAt our Freeport store, you can find great outlet savings — up to 70% off — on our quality bedding, apparel, gifts and more! In addition to our cozy, made in Maine comforters and pillows, our Freeport store features unique specialty and gift items not found in our catalog or online. If you’re in Freeport, stop in and visit!
Photo courtesy of Sea Bags
Sea Bags“Sustainable, beautiful, and made in Maine — what could be better? These unique, handcrafted bags are made from recycled sails and come in a variety of sizes and styles. You can even design your own!” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
3 Sons Lobster and Fish“The best place to buy lobster in Portland!” — Kari, Monogramming
Photo courtesy of Abacus Gallery
Abacus“Featuring a wide assortment of gift items and home accessories crafted by Maine artisans, Abacus is the place to go if you’re looking for something truly unique. Don’t miss their gorgeous calendars, which double as works of art.” — Laura, E-Commerce Manager
Bliss BoutiqueBliss is the place where the chic come to shop! Whether you’re looking for stylish weekend wear, cozy scarves, or the perfect little black dress, you can find it at Bliss. “The clothes at Bliss Boutique are so cute and unique! I especially love their colorful jewelry!” — Katie, Creative Assistant
Coastal Maine Popcorn Co.“Pretty much the best thing on earth. I absolutely love their buffalo-flavored popcorn, but for anyone not so adventurous, they have a huge variety of flavors ranging from the usual to the unique.” — Jessica, Jr Web Designer
Knit Wit Yarn Shop“If you’re a knitter, visit Knit Wit on Congress Street to browse a great selection of yarns. An incredible variety packed into such a cozy little shop.” — Jody, Web Content Admin
Photo courtesy of LeRoux Kitchen
LeRoux Kitchen“If you’re looking for that hard-to-find kitchen gadget, LeRoux Kitchen is the place to go. From cutlery of all types to an impressive selection of coffees and teas, Leroux has it all. For a unique gift, try their specialty olive oils and vinegars that you can sample before you buy!” — Sarah, Marketing Assistant
Photo courtesy of Treehouse Toys
Treehouse Toys“If you’re looking for a classic and unique children’s gift, head to Treehouse Toys in Portland’s Old Port. This cute shop features a wide variety of books, puzzles, and educational toys for kids of all ages, many of which are made in New England.” — Kristina, Graphic Designer
Photo courtesy of Stonewall Kitchen
Stonewall KitchenWhen it comes to jams, mustards, and sauces, you can’t go wrong with Stonewall Kitchen. Offering a wide range of specialty condiments, baking mixes, and toppings, Stonewall Kitchen has something to please every palate. “I love going to the store just so I can taste-test their products! Their blueberry jam and pumpkin caramel sauce are my favorites.” — Jessica, Jr Web Designer
Photo courtesy of The Criterion Theater
The Criterion Theater “The Criterion looks deceptively small and plain to passers-by on Cottage Street in downtown Bar Harbor, but those who venture inside will find a unique, beautifully maintained theater with seating for nearly a thousand people. The theater has been around since 1932, and was originally used for vaudeville performances. In addition to a large downstairs seating section, it boasts an unusual architectural feature; a ‘floating balcony,’ one of a few of its kind. Not only is this free-hanging structure an architectural feat, it also offers some of the best seating in the house. The theater is operated as non-profit organization and is currently used for movies, live music performances, theater, and community events.” — Megan, Web Content Admin
Photo courtesy of Portland Players
Portland Players“This community theater bills itself as Maine’s Longest Running Community Theater, and a little known fact is that their first board president actually was the composer of the official Maine State Anthem, ‘Grand State of Maine.’ They put on several musicals and plays every year, mostly old favorites such as ‘The Sound of Music’ but also lesser-known musicals such as ‘Side Show.’ Having performed several times with them, and having seen many shows there — if you can’t afford Broadway, come see a show at Players, you may be surprised at the great local talent here in Maine!” — Danielle, Copywriter
