Rising Tide Brewing CompanyThis summer while visiting Boston, we did a quick trip up to our daughter’s favorite spot in Maine. It was a great little weekend trip, although the traffic coming home was crazy! It seems like we were not the only ones to have this idea. But it was just a storybook as you think it will be!
Epic things to do in Portland:
1. Wander the downtown area
2. Visit the Lighthouses in the area
3. Eat
4. Try one of the many breweries in the area
Explore the “Old Port” downtown – the heartbeat of Portland with 19th century red brick buildings, gas lanterns, cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants and people!
Portland Head Light Lighthouse – the most beautiful spot in the area! Take a picnic and enjoy Ft Williams Park. The Lighthouse, the seaside and the rocky cliffs. Picture Perfect! This lighthouse was built 1791 and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Add to your experience and snap your photo here too!
There are 6 lighthouses all within a half hour of downtown:
Portland Breakwater (Bug Light)
Spring Point Ledge
Portland Head
Cape Elizabeth
Cape Elizabeth West
(Cape Elizabeth and Cape Elizabeth West are referred to as “Two Lights”)
Ram Island Ledge – best viewed from Ft Williams Park
The coastline is stunning, and I recommend taking time out to explore it and soak in the amazing scenery!
Epic Eats:
Eventide – I must give a shout out here because their brown butter lobster roll and fried oysters were ridiculously good! From the oysters on the half shell to the Tuna and Salmon Crudes to the Oatmeal Ice Cream Sandwich - every bite was good. Reservations are necessary! Call and book ahead!
Breweries we visited:
Barreled Souls
Liquid Riot
Allagash Brewing Company
Austin Street Brewery
Rising Tide Brewing Company
There were all great! I am not the best person to speak on the breweries and beer but my daughter, Emily, is an expert so I need to get her to follow up with a blog on the beers and breweries!
Overall – There is plenty of things to keep you busy in this town for a few days. Besides, eating, drinking and shopping, there are plenty of bike and boating adventures to try. The most epic thing is the coastal scenery and lighthouses so plan to spend some time at Ft Williams Park and along the coastline. And please don’t forget to eat lots of Maine lobster!
