Portland's Abacus!

One of Portland's most unique and charming craft & home accessory shop. Opened in 1984, their Portland store  at 44 Exchange St, features a large collection of jewelry ranging from high-end to highly affordable, as well the unique and unusual crafts and home accessories. Located in the heart of the Old Port, the Portland store has two floors to shop, exposed brick and stone walls, and high ceilings characteristic of the neighborhood. Recognized by locals and visitors as one of the best places to shop in Portland, this location is bustling year round thanks to a city with lots to offer.  They have stores located in Ogunquit, Freeport, Kennebunkport, and Boothbay Harbor. Take a stroll thru! We're sure you'll find just the right treasure! FMI: http://www.abacusgallery.com/ or (207) 772-4880

five fifty-five

Nestled on Congress Street, in an attractive brick building, is where you will find the comfortable atmosphere of one of Portland's fine dining restaurants, 555. Owned & operated by Steve & Michelle Cory, they provide a dining experience that is quaint, with professional service and fresh, delicious food for a reasonable price. They offer an extensive wine list and mouth watering entree's. Now through Dec 30, they are offering "Oyster Thursday". Every Thursday, in the lougne, they are offering oysters on the half shell paired with a drink special. For reservations & more info: (207) 761-0555 or visit: www.fivefiftyfive.com

State Theatre of Portland Maine!

We are so excited to have the State Theatre open once again! Built in 1929 and one of Maine’s most historic venues, the venue has undergone extensive renovations including an upgrade to the stage, sound system, seating and bar areas. Presenting the finest in national performing arts, the State Theatre exists to enrich lives while establishing relationships between music and the arts and the residents of Maine and New England. The State is proud to contribute to the vital urban and creative environment of Portland, Maine. Located at 609 Congress Street in the heart of the of the Portland Arts District. For a schedule of events, visit: http://www.statetheatreportland.com/.

Becky's Diner

Becky's Diner is a 'must' if you are traveling through or a Portland native. The atmosphere is fun, the food is great and the staff is wonderful. Grab a bar stool or relax on the deck. Be prepared for a small wait line if you arrive on a Friday or Saturday evening. Open 4am - 9pm! FMI: www.beckysdiner.com or call (207) 773-7070

David's Restaurant

Portland's Arts District is full of fun and exciting shops, cafe's and restaurants. One of our favorite restaurants is David's. David Turin, owner, is an award winning chef and owner. Located at 22 Monument Square, his menu offers an array of unique and delicious entree's prepared & served beautifully. The wine list is lengthly & impressive. If you are looking for a comfortable atmosphere for dining, check out David's in Portland or at his South Portland location at 388 Cottage Road. www.davidsrestaurant.com

Two Lights State Park

A popular point of destination for Maine residents and the many visitors who enjoy the state's legendary rocky coast, including Adam Richman of the Travel Channel. The park encompasses 41-acres of rocky headlands and opened in 1961. Standing high above the rocky coast and rolling surf, visitors have sweeping views of Casco Bay and the open Atlantic. Located off Rt 77 in Cape Elizabeth, Two Lights was recently featured on the Travel Channel's, Man v. Food episode. Click on the link below to see some photos of the vist: http://www.travelchannel.com/travelchannel/TV_Shows/Man_V_Food/Photos/Slideshow_Portland_Maine

As the largest and oldest art museum in the state of Maine, the Museum serves as a vital cultural resource for all who visit! The Museum's collection of more than 17,000 objects is housed in three historic and remarkable buildings showcasing three centuries of art and architecture. Whether this is your first visit or 131st, their changing exhibitions and permanent collection offer you a diverse selection of fine and decorative arts to view. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon, evening, or weekend! Just another gem that Portland has to offer. For more information call 775-6148 or visit: www.portlandmuseum.org

Portland Trails

Whether you are looking for a Sunday stroll or out to get some exercise, check out the Portland Trails for an assortment of walking, running or biking trails throughtout the Greater Portland area. Portland Trails is a non-profit urban land trust dedicated to building a network of multi-use trails. They are host to many annual events and are always looking for volunteers to help out. Why not take advantage of this fun resource and join in?! To learn more and view the maps: www.trails.org or call 775-2411

Casco Bay Lines

What began back in 1871 (named in 1878) as the Casco Bay Steamboat Company, we all know today as the Casco Bay Ferry or Casco Bay Lines.

Our popular & beloved ferries carry our island residents to the mainland thoughout the day and provides year round service to the islands.

Casco Bay Ferries also offers scenic cruises, summer-time music cruises and private charters & lobster bakes.

So, why not check 'em out and go island hopping?! Their schedule is posted at: www.cascobaylines.com or call (207) 774-7871

The Best Neighborhood Bakery!

If you have never stopped into Scratch, you owe it to yourself to do so! What began as a small neighborhood 'grab & go' bakery in 2004, has risen into a household name. Their breads, bagels and sweet treats are carefully handcrafted each day filling Willard Squre with the wonderful aroma of bread & yummy treats! They are open Tuesday thru Sunday. Stop by for a coffee and treat to go! FMI: www.scratchbakingco.com or 799-0668

Biking weather has arrived!

Whether you are a biking enthusiast or a weekend cruiser, biking is another reason to celebrate spring! For those of us who live in the Greater Portland area, we are lucky enough to have many, quality bike shops available to us. Cycle Mania is one of those shops! Cycle Mania has been pedaling their goods since 1981. From hybrids & cruisers to mountain bikes, road bikes, and even children's bikes, they carry a full line of the best in the business. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable and nuts about biking! They love the sport and it shows. If you are looking to get into the sport, looking for a new bike or just have questions, Cycle Mania is a great place to visit! For more information call 774-2933 or visit www.cyclemania1.com

Downtown Portland's Time & Temp Building

Nestled in the arts district in downtown and located at 477 Congress Street is our notorious Time & Temp Building. The building is named after the large display screen on the roof that flashes the local time and temperature. Built in 1924, the building once had the state's first indoor shopping center on its ground floor. A few shops still operate inside. The building is home to television station WMTW and radio stations 99.9 The Bone and 107.5 Frank FM.
Most recently, the stairwells were the training ground for the Portland Firefighters (and a few others) as they trained for their annual "Climb of Your Life" sponsored by the American Lung Association. If you are downtown, take a stroll through history & stroll through the lobby of this amazing building!

Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro

Looking for something yummy and a little different? Stop into the Green Elephant restaurant located at 608 Congress Street. Their Asian-influenced cuisine combined with their own innovative vegetarian menu and cozy atmosphere is sure to keep you coming back! Their menu consists of Quick Bite, Soup & Salad, and a long list of intriguing Entrees such as Spicy Vegetable Medley Stir-Fry or Far East Duck. This is one place you definitely have to check out! www.greenelephantmaine.com or 347-3111

the Dogfish Bar & Grille

One of our all time favorite places! The Dogfish Bar and Grille is home to an informal, intimate, restaurant with a great dinner menu and casual atmosphere. They have two decks with charming views for summertime dining. A friendly tavern on the first floor is host to local, regional & national talent, mostly acoustic, blues & jazz most evenings. Stop by their location at 128 Free Street, www.dogfishbarandgrille.com or their other cozy & quaint cafe located at 953 Congress Street www.dogfishcafe.com

Mexicali Blues

Mexicali Blues is one of Old Port's coolest import stores! Boasting with the atmosphere of a street kiosk or bazaar, this store is filled with tie-dye shirts, imported clothing, sterling silver gemstone jewerly, accessories & apparel from around the world. They opened their first store on Exchange Street in 1988 and have expanded with stores in Freeport, Raymond & Newcastle. If you are looking for something unique and really cool, visit them at their Portland store on Moulton St or go to: www.mexicaliblues.com

First Friday Art Walk

Mark your calendar to take a stroll through Portland this Friday, Feb 5th. Join the many others that participate in Portland's First Friday Art Walk beginning at 5pm! It's a self guided tour of local art galleries, art studios, museums, and alternative art venues. First Friday Art Walk is held the first friday of every month from 5-8pm. What a great way to see & visit Portland's visual arts community. For more information along with a brochure visit: www.firstfridayartwalk.com

Specialty Coffee!

Coffee By Design offers quite possibility the best coffee in town! Located at 43 Washington Ave, this charming coffee house is on a mission to educate people about speciality coffee and to create the best coffee drinking experience possible for their customers. They are committed to operating a professional espresso/coffee bar coffee micro-roastery that meets the highest standards. Stop by their Washington Ave location or their newest location inside LLBean in Freeport. If you can't stop in, you can order their coffee online. For more information, visit: www.coffeebydesign.com

A Setting Like No Other....Grace

You'll take a step back in time upon entering Grace, the former Chestnut Street United Methodist Church, which now is home to a stunning 175 seat restaurant nestled in Portland's downtown. Owners, Peter & Anne Verrill painstakingly restored the circa 1856-75 building inside and out, while maintaining the historic character. If you are looking for an evening of dining with an atmosphere like no other, stop by Grace. Visit their website at: www.restaurantgrace.com

Miss Portland Diner

A Portland landmark!

Miss Portland diner, crafted in 1949 by the Worcester Lunch Car Company, and labeled as car #818, was originally located on Forest Avenue from 1949 to 1964. It was moved to 49 Marginal Way until it closed in 2004. She was re-opened and carefully renovated by Tom Manning, a Portland native, in October 2008.

The diner is known for her unique ambiance & good food at reasonable prices. Breakfast is served all day! Stop by! www.missportlanddiner.com

One Longfellow Square

Portland's Premier Arts Venue!
One Longfellow Square host an array of live music, theater, film, dance, and community events. Purchased locally in 2006 from the Center for Cultural Exchange, and is now emerging as one of Portland's most engaging & dynamic art venues. Conveniently located on the corners of State Street and Congress St, this is one Portland venue you shouldn't miss.  Check out their site for the long list of events! http://www.onelongfellowsquare.com/