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Back Cove

Back Cove is a neighborhood in Portland that houses not only people but also a large population of birds. Home to a tidal pool and 33-acre sanctuary where the feathered locals like to congregate, the neighborhood is most well known for the Back Cove trail, a flat loop around the cove that is about 3.5 miles long. The trail is a great place to get some exercise while enjoying a great view of the Portland skyline, making it a popular spot for runners, walkers, and dog walkers, not to mention bird watchers. Surrounding the trail and water is the Back Cove neighborhood, which is made up of upscale housing, apartments, and good schools. More »

Baxter Woods Park

Just north of downtown lays Baxter Woods Park, a 30-acre parcel of land between Forest and Stevens Avenues. Named after the former Governor Percival Baxter who purchased it, Baxter Woods is one of the prime examples of Portland's existing forests. The park offers visitors an opportunity to walk through the White Oak, Ash, and Hemlock trees that populated the area in its earliest days. These trees helped early settlers develop the area as one of the major resources of the area. Even England capitalized on the Portland commodity as some of the trees were used in ship building for the Royal Navy. This quiet park allows visitors to stroll through the shady paths with views of the river. People come to walk, bike, and play with their dogs off leash as they enjoy some quiet minutes away from the city without leaving. More »

Center for Maine History Museum

The Center for Maine History Museum features both rotating and permanent galleries and exhibits that showcase the last five centuries of the state's past. The museum houses extensive collections from the Maine Historical Society (the oldest state society of its kind in the United States), including art, documents, and other historical artifacts. The collections comprise over 15,000 pieces that come from early settlers, Native American tribes, military, or other sources of Maine culture. Some popular exhibits from the past have included the works of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the mapping history of the state, and an exhibit on Victorian life at sea. In addition to exploring the museum, be sure to take a look around the Wadsworth-Longfellow house (the well-preserved abode of the famous American poet and his family), and the extensive research library. More »

Charles Quincy Clapp House

A residence built by businessman Charles Clapp in the mid 1800s, the Clapp House is is modeled after a Greek temple and is one of the best examples of Greek revival architecture in the city. Previously housing offices of the Maine College of Art, the title of the house has now been transferred to the Portland Museum of Art. It benefits the museum because it gives the museum a larger footprint and more freedom to consider future expansion as their newly acquired house also includes an adjoining piece of land. The house is an architecturally-beautiful structure to admire, but it is also known as one of the most famous haunted houses in Portland; it is thought to be haunted by Charles' father, Asa Clapp who has come back to watch over his family's household possessions. During the restoration process, the house is closed to the public, but the exterior will not have any scaffolding up, so it will still be worth a look. More »

Children's Museum of Maine

Recognized nationally as a great museum for kids, the Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits to learn about exploring, imagination, and science--for young ones and adults alike. Kids will love scaling the climbing wall, entering a bear's den, and dressing up and performing on stage, among many other fun activities. Also, check the events calendar for special happenings throughout the year, such as the celebration of National Pig Day or The Music Jamboree. The museum expands over four floors, making it a great site to entertain for hours. After a day spent exploring, stop by the on-site store and pick up some learning-based gifts to remember your visit. More »

City Hall

In 1912, City Hall was built where the remains of the prior City Hall were before it burned down in 1908. The building was erected in the Second Renaissance Revival style out of granite from a quarry in North Jay, Maine. City Hall remains one of the most architecturally spectacular buildings found in Portland and stands out with its green roof and impressive bell tower and spire. Inside, it houses the Kotzschmar organ, which hosts a number of concerts throughout the year. More »

Congress Street

Congress Street anchors a majority of Portland's downtown area. Just a short distance from Portland's Old Port district, Congress Street is the heart of both civic buildings and cultural life. Stretching from the Arts District all the way up to Casco Bay, Congress Street has a number of notable sites along the way. Beginning at the Arts district there are a number of art galleries, museums, and schools such as the Portland Museum of Art and the Maine College of Art. Every first Friday of the month people gather on this area of Congress Street for an arts walk through the various galleries. As you continue up Congress Street you'll find Wadsworth Longfellow's House and Monument Square. Further up is the Portland Observatory and City Hall. More »

Crescent Beach State Park

Crescent Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, making it a busy hangout full of locals and visitors. The beach is a mile-long strip of white sand with gentle surf and mild water temperatures--the perfect spot for both swimmers and loungers. Other favorite activities include fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. There is more to the park than beach; forests and dunes abound and house many miles of beautiful hiking trails. There are also two 19th century lighthouses nearby, and it's worth a jaunt up the road to view the antique structures; only one of them is in working order, but they're still beautiful to admire. More »

Deering Oaks

The largest park in Portland, Deering Oaks is popular for its winding trails and its tall stands of trees, which give it a cool, shaded feel. The park is over 100 years old and is on the National Register of Historic Places--in 1689 it was the site of a battle between the French, British, and Native Americans of the area. Stop by the wading pond that is used in the summer for paddle boat peddlers and converts in the winter to an ice rink. Wander around the rose garden to take in the over 600 species of roses or try your hand at horseshoeing; no matter which activity you choose, the park is a good place to explore them all. More »

Eastern Cemetery

Considered the oldest burial ground in Portland, Eastern Cemetery is the final resting place of some of Portland's most distinguished citizens. Early settlers, abolitionists, and Civil War heroes alike are all laid to rest here in the six-acre lot near the ocean off of Congress Street and Mountfort Street. Originally owned by the Reverend Thomas Smith, Eastern Cemetery didn't become part of Portland's property until his death in 1795. You can walk along the "L-shaped" road referred to as Funeral Lane. In 1858, burials ceased in the cemetery for good. Learn about Portland's history as you look at the various graves and monuments. More »

Ferry Beach State Park

Located in a sheltered cove, Ferry Beach is a small, sandy park good for swimming because the waters are a bit more shallow and warmer than many of the local beaches in the area. It was named for an old ferry that used to shuttle passengers across the nearby Saco river. In addition to swimming, there is a great nature trail that explains the ecosystem of the area (including the unique stand of black gum trees). There is also a freshwater lake that is popular for fishing and observing local birds and waterfowl. Take some time to explore the rolling sand dunes dotted with clumps of dune grass that have long, strong roots to help avoid erosion; take caution though, the fragile dune grass can be destroyed by too much foot traffic. More »

First Parish Church

The congregation of the First Parish Church dates back to the Revolutionary War period, though the building was constructed some decades later, in 1826. In the ensuing years, First Parish would be at the center of Maine's anti-slavery movement; the most prominent abolitionist in the country, William Lloyd Garrison, editor of the fiercely anti-slavery newspaper The Liberator, came to speak at the church in 1832. First Parish has been the center of Portland's religious community ever since, and continues to focus on issues of social justice as a Unitarian Universalist congregation. Worship services are held at 10am on Sundays if you'd like to attend. More »

Fort Allen Park/Eastern Promenade

Right on the banks of the Portland Harbor are the Eastern Promenade and Fort Allen Park; the park is located towards the southeast corner of the Eastern Prom, off Fore Street. Being right off the harbor affords both stunning views, but the local draw is the recreation--there are tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields, as well as multi-use biking/running/walking trails that snake alongside the coast. Victorian-inspired homes line the Eastern Prom, but the really picturesque view is of the boats that stream into the Portland Harbor. You cannot go wrong by taking a little stroll along the Eastern Promenade. More »

Fort Williams

Situated close to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, Portland Head Light, Fort Williams was once spread over 90 acres of beautiful sea-side land. The Fort played an active role in World War I and was the headquarters for Portland's Harbor Defenses during World War II. It used to house batteries, a bandstand, laundry, officers' quarters, fire station, and bakery. Today, some of the building remains still stand and are great for exploring, especially many of the batteries that are built into the ground. Another interesting building to see is the Goddard Mansion, a stately structure that once was home to Colonel John Goddard and his family; today it is mostly a skeleton of the original home, but is still an intriguing place to walk around. More »

Funtown/Splashtown

Opening in 1959, with only a mini-golf course and a go-Kart track, this amusement park has grown to become the largest family themed park in Northern New England. The park prides itself on being an adventure experience for all ages, and encourages the entire family to come out and play on rides like the Antique Car track, or the Classic Carousel. Don't forget to ride Maine's only wooden roller coaster, the Excalibur. Or, if you're feeling a little more adventurous, ride the New England favorite, the Astrosphere. If the weather is warm, take the family to Splashtown, which features rafting rides, tunnel rides, and more. The park offers something for everyone. More »

Higgins Beach

What would a trip to Maine be if there wasn't a special stop at the sea shore? Higgins Beach is the place to relax in the lawn chair, fix a Lobster Roll sandwich from the cooler, and watch the waves break over the Atlantic Ocean until the sun goes down. It's a charming beach that the locals have managed to keep under the radar and free from commercial use. If the waves call you, catch a few while surfing or boogie boarding. If fishing for Rockfish makes the ears perk up, then bring a pole, as fishing is a popular sport in this area. The beach has several homes to rent, or “summer” in, so feel free to stay a while and soak in the relaxing sounds of crashing waves, seagulls calling one another, and the subtle but warm east coast breezes. More »

Institute of Contemporary Art at the Maine College of Art

If you want to check out the latest cutting-edge galleries showcasing the new trends in modern art, this museum is the place to visit. It is set in the beautiful galleries of the Maine College of Art Porteous Building in Downtown Portland and is an educational resource for visitors and students alike. Featuring both well-established and new artists, the museum exhibits pieces done in a wide range of mediums, from humans themselves to adhesive vinyl to hundreds of speakers. The institute also offers good programs and events open to the public and great activities for kids. The programs are all free and are a wonderful way to experience the magical world of contemporary art through exposure and experience creating your own masterpieces. More »

Kettle Cove

Just down the road from the Crescent Beach State Park, a larger but busier state beach, lies the quaint and more personable Kettle Cove. Frequented by locals, this beach provides a relaxing ambiance for those who want to lounge in the sun, while also providing plenty of opportunity to work up a sweat. Kettle Cove is known for its trails, offering hiking, climbing on the scraggly rocks, and cross-country skiing in the winter. It's also a great place for boating and fishing. Once you've worked up an appetite playing on the beach and in the waves, grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants and watch the sun disappear over the cove. More »

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

This museum is a must-see for railroad history buffs. It features a fully functioning 1.5-mile railway that meanders the waterfront along Casco Bay. Visitors are welcome to hop aboard and take a ride on the small antique railcars; they've all been restored and are pulled along by steam and diesel locomotives. These rare trains transported people, farming goods, and lumber throughout the state from 1879 until before World War II and were a reliable alternative to weather-dependent horse-drawn buggies. The museum also showcases other unique artifacts from the narrow gauge (2 ft or 610 mm) railways that ran across the state of Maine and connected residents to the rest of the country. More »

McLellan Sweat House

The McLellan Sweat House, owned by the Portland Museum of Art, is a beautiful example of the post-revolutionary building boom that occurred in Portland in the early 1800s. This stately, three-story, brick structure, built in Federal-style architecture, is complete with elaborate carved woodwork in the interior. It was commissioned to be built in 1801 by shipping mogul Major Hugh McLellan and it wasn't until the late 19th century that John Kimball Sr. was identified as the designer and builder of the home. In 1807, the start of the British trade embargo put a dent in the shipping industry, and consequently, McLellan had to give his house up to the government to sell. It was sold to Asa Clapp in 1817 for one fifth of the original cost. More »

Merrill Auditorium

A 1,900-seat gem connected to City Hall, the Merrill Auditorium puts on the operas, ballets, concerts, and theatrical performances that characterize a piece of Portland's buzzing arts and cultural scene. The auditorium was originally built in 1912 and underwent a major renovation in 1997. It is the home of the Portland Symphony Orchestra, but it's not a stuffy venue, hosting both stand-up comedy and Beethoven, alike. The acoustics are very good and you'll love taking in a show in a century-old building. Also of note is the auditorium's Kotzschmar Organ, a one-of-a-kind instrument that has almost 7,000 pipes broken into 8 divisions. More »

Neal Dow Memorial House

Neal Dow, born 1804, was known as the “Napoleon of Temperance,” and is a historical figure in Maine today. He was an avid supporter of temperance, banning the production and sales of alcohol, and was also an important figure during the Civil War. During his time as mayor of Maine, he successfully campaigned for Maine to become the first state in the United States to ban the consumption of alcohol. The Neal Dow house, built in 1829, was his home, and is managed by the Maine Woman's Christian Temperance, an organization that continues to oppose alcohol but regularly welcomes visitors for tours of the house. Visit this house. which is now on the list of National Historic Landmarks, while on a self-guided tour of the political trail. This trail takes you around the city and showcases important historical landmarks and events in American history. More »

Old Orchard Beach

A busy beach destination in the summer, Old Orchard Beach is a coastal town that offers a ton of recreation, be it an amusement park, golf, open ocean fishing, or simple lounging on the beach. Its 500-foot-long pier looks deep into the Atlantic Ocean, while the coastline gives you seven miles of uninterrupted beach. There are multitudes of bars and restaurants easily accessible from the beach, and you'll find plenty of other revelers if that's your fancy. Only a few minutes from Portland, Old Orchard Beach is a great little stop on the coast. More »

Old Port

"The Old Port" refers to Portland's revitalized warehouse district, an area of town that sits just off the waterfront. Most of the buildings have been re-purposed as a restaurant or a bar or a boutique or even residential living, but along with the original 19th century architecture, the feel of the old town remains, complete with cobblestone streets. Old Port was the commercial district at Portland's founding, and it is still so today. This is the area where Portland nightlife is most vibrant--the juxtaposition of the hip, artsy, and new with the dint of older history and culture is an enchanting mix. Old Port has something for all-comers. More »

Our Lady of Victories Monument

The centerpiece of the Monument Square is fittingly, Our Lady of Victories Monument (also known as the Soldiers and Sailors Monument), an 1891 bronze sculpture crafted by Franklin Simmons in honor of the Mainers who fought for the Union in the Civil War. The sculpture was constructed in the Greco-Roman tradition depicting a goddess of war, standing tall with sword and shield displayed proudly. The classical statue sits at the center of the city, so it's well-located for you to stop by for a picture during the rest of your travels. More »

Palace Playland

Palace Playland is an Old Orchard Beach icon, with its 75-foot ferris wheel and other rides right off the Saco Bay. By day, it is an amusement park and arcade made for kids and their families, but by night, it's a rocking boardwalk playground for adults (who may or may not still be kids at heart). You won't have to pay anything to enter the park itself, but you'll have to buy some tickets to ride the attractions. You can eat and drink and ride to your heart's content, and every Thursday evening during the summer there are fireworks. It's a fun little spot for just about every traveler. More »

Peaks Island

Where can you go to get away from city life to experience a slower pace and laid back environment? A short ferry ride can take you there, to Peaks Island, off of Casco Bay. Plan a day trip to the island and immerse yourself into the local culture while visiting the local art galleries, specialty shops, and restaurants. Don't forget to make an appointment to tour the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum, which aims to preserve the existence of umbrella covers for generations to come. If the weather is nice, rent a bike or a kayak at one of the rental shops and take a self-guided tour around the island. It won't take too long, it's only two miles long and one mile wide, so take your time and enjoy life on the island. More »

Portland Fire Museum

The Portland Fire Museum is located in a historic building in downtown Portland and is operated by the Portland Veteran Firemen's Association. The PVFA consists of 20 firefighters, both veterans and active members, who maintain the museum's collection of Portland firefighting art and memorabilia from the early 19th century to present day. They originally housed the growing pile of artifacts in the house of Casco Engine 1, then moved to their present location, the old fire quarters of Engine 4. Some of the highlights of the collection include an 1848 hand tub and reel, original horse stalls, 19th century hand pumpers, and a varied assortment of slide poles, lithographs, and paintings. The museum accepts memorabilia and artifacts from anyone who would like to donate; they also assist in the preservation of the articles to get them ready for display at the museum. More »

Portland Harbor Museum

Maritime history and culture is hard to recreate outside of the boat, but the Portland Harbor Museum does quite a nice job of exploring through its collection, which includes the last surviving American clipper ship, the Snow Squall. The gift shop features regional artists' work, so it's a great spot to pick up some local wares for someone back at home. Head to the museum, which is adjacent to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and inside the walls of old Fort Preble, to get a healthy whiff of fresh ocean air, take in the view from Casco Bay, and watch the boats come to harbor. More »

Portland Head Light & Museum

The Portland Head Light is a picturesque lighthouse located on the rocky cliffs in southeastern Maine. It was constructed in 1791 by the state of Maine; the government decided that after two people died in a shipwreck off the coast of Cushing Island in 1787, it would be prudent to have a lighthouse on the rocky shoreline. It was built to its current height of 72 feet and was originally kept by Captain John Greenleaf, a Revolutionary War veteran who was appointed to occupy the keeper's house by President George Washington. Today, the lighthouse itself is manned by the United States Coast Guard, but the museum, grounds, and keeper's quarters are managed by the city of Cape Elizabeth. The museum is housed within the original keeper's quarters building and showcases various light lenses and historical displays. More »

Portland Museum of Art

The Portland Museum of Art is located in downtown Portland (in an area fittingly called The Arts District), where it plays host to works of some of the world's most renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Winslow Homer, Rene Magritte, and Pierre-Auguste Rodin--in three architecturally stunning buildings. The collection spans across every major genre of art, and includes 18,000 fine and decorative pieces, dating from the 17th century to present day. You can take a break from art gazing to eat lunch at the Museum Cafe, where the menu changes every day and is all made from scratch. On Sunday mornings, the Cafe holds what it calls “Jazz Breakfasts,” where well-known area jazz musicians perform while you brunch with your friends and family. This vibrant cultural landmark cannot be missed. More »

Portland Observatory

Start out your trip to Portland with a stop at the Portland Observatory on the east side of town. The Observatory was constructed in 1807 and is the sole remaining maritime signal tower in the United States. It was once used to signal merchants in town that their ships had arrived. By using different colored flags, merchants would know to head down to the docks and prepare their ships for port. Today it is considered a National Historic Landmark and offers one of the best views of Portland to the general public, as well as guided tours where visitors will also learn the history of Portland. Once you've climbed 103 stairs to reach the top, you'll want to stay awhile and soak in the views of the bay, downtown Portland, and on clear days, the mountains all the way in New Hampshire. More »

Portland Public Library

The Portland Public Library, located in Monument Square downtown, is a modern-looking structure with cubist design influences. It serves the familiar role as book and other media depot, but also houses many documents about Portland's past, which you could pour over for days. The library has frequent events and lectures on disparate topics of all kinds, so check the schedule if that is your cup of tea. It's a nice way to wind down an afternoon or keep an active little one busy for an hour or two during your downtown touring, so stop by for a look. More »

Portland Trails

The Portland Trails are a network of multi-use trails that run in and around the city, extending some 30 miles at present, although there are plans to expand it. Portland's unique geography of coastline and rivers allow the trail system to hit several different kinds of landscape, along with more “urban” trails. If you're inclined to do some hiking, biking, running, walking, take some great pictures, or do anything outside, this trail network is your kind of excursion. Check the website for specific trail maps and other details. More »

Reed Monument

Just off the Western Promenade overlooking Casco Bay is a 1910 statue depicting Mr. Thomas Brackett Reed, the former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. Reed is an enduring figure in American politics and his procedural rules are still in practice today where his operating principles and personal wit animated his politics; he once remarked, “The best system is to have one party govern and the other party watch.” The so-called “Reed Rules” made filibustering tactics less of a legislative obstacle to the majoritarian nature of the House. Reed was quite an interesting man, and left his imprint on the parliamentary process in America indelibly stamped. His monument offers a great view of the bay and a nice bit of history. More »

Revere Bell

There are few American myths as potent as the one surrounding Paul Revere's ride to warn of the British troop movements from Boston ahead of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts (popularized by Portlander Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow's poem, “Paul Revere's Ride”). And perhaps, were it not for that fateful evening on April 18th, 1775 when he and William Dawes prepared the Minutemen, you wouldn't even be reading this right now. But what you may not know is that Revere was, in addition to being a committed patriot, a successful silversmith. Paul Revere & Sons produced wares like the bell held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in downtown Portland, one of only 13 surviving. If you'd like to see it, you'll need to go to the church on a Sunday morning, as it is closed to the public the rest of the week. More »

Spring Point Light

The Spring Point Light is an iconic symbol of Maine's coastal heritage, located a few minutes drive from Portland. A jagged piece of coast called the Spring Point Ledge caused several ships to run aground and so the lighthouse was constructed to warn vessels that passed through the busy shipping channel. Construction was finished by 1897 and the light is still in use by the US Coast Guard. You can actually walk all the way around the lighthouse itself, which differs from most other “caisson” lighthouses, which are surrounded by water. The Spring Point Ledge Light Trust, which operates the lighthouse itself, allows you to climb up to the top of the tower during its weekly open houses in the summer. Alternatively, it's a beautiful view and a perfect spot to watch boats stream into the harbor, or do some fishing. You can also visit the Portland Harbor Museum and Fort Preble, all adjacent to the Spring Point Light. More »

Tate House Museum

Built in 1755 for Captain George Tate, Senior Mast Agent for the British Royal Navy, the Tate House is the only pre-revolutionary residence in the greater Portland area that is open for public tours. It is also known as one of only two homes in the state of Maine that have an unusual design aspect to the roof--a clerestory, or a row of narrow windows along the top of a wall. It is a large and elegant home built in stately Georgian style which is a reflection of the high-powered status that George Tate held as a Captain in the Royal Navy. Highlights of the house include beautifully restored furnishings, an 18th century herb garden, and manicured grounds. More »

Top of the East Lounge

Top of the East is a must-see Portland jazz lounge that draws its name from its location on top of the Eastland Hotel. The décor and ambiance invite you to relax and enjoy a well-made drink as you peer outwards to the water--it's the perfect place to wind down after visiting the Portland Museum of Art or the other galleries around the Arts District. It is easily the best view in the city, looking out onto Casco Bay, which you can take in along with the lounge's frequent jazz performances. The appetizer menu, full of fresh Maine-caught seafood, is superb. Hard to go wrong with a trip here. More »

Two Lights State Park

What comes to mind when you picture the shorelines of Maine? If it's visions of rugged rocks and wild waves, then visiting the picturesque Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth is a must. The park runs along the New England coastline and visitors can get up close and personal with the crashing waves. It's named after two twin lighthouses constructed in 1828, one of which is still operating today, over 180 years later. Two Lights State Park is an exceptional place to view native wildlife and flora, that is hidden amongst World War II coastal defense remains. It has become a popular destination for people wanting to have a picnic, explore trails that offer views across the Atlantic, and for people looking to have an old fashioned clambake. More »

U.S. Custom House

The US Custom House, just off Casco Bay, is a historic structure, both for its connection to the 19th century maritime culture as well as the Renaissance Revival architectural tradition found in many federal buildings of the post-Civil War era. It is essentially the same building as it was upon construction in 1872, which is something to note. The Custom House was built by Alfred B. Mullett, one of the supervising architects of the United States Treasury building in Washington DC, using granite from New Hampshire. The building is quite impressive, so even though it is not open to the public, you can make your way over near the bay, and admire the exterior features. More »

Victoria Mansion

An exquisite mansion in the heart of downtown Portland, “the Vic,” as the locals refer to it, is truly an architectural wonder. It is one of the most impressive Italian villas you'll ever see, and is said to be one of the finest in the whole country. The building's amazing preservation of its original interiors and the stunning display comprise what the mansion itself rightly characterizes as an “unparalleled document” of 19th-century American architecture and design. The mansion takes on a brilliant Christmas costume during the holidays, which is a real treat on top of the normal visit. If you're a fan of Victorian architecture and design, there may not be a better place to have a look-see than at the Vic in Portland. More »

Wadsworth-Longfellow House

The Wadsworth-Longfellow house is the oldest standing structure on the Portland Peninsula and was home to three generations of the Wadsworth-Longfellow family. General Peleg Wadsworth, an officer during the American Revolutionary War, built the house in the 1780s entirely out of brick, which was considered a rarity at the time. It was also the home of the famous American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, during the 1800s. As you tour the house you will hear references to his most popular poems, Paul Revere's Ride, and The Song of Hiawatha, while also learning about the various cultural changes the house encountered while the family occupied it. The final resident of the house was Henry's sister, Anne Longfellow Pierce. After her death in 1901, the house and all of it's furniture and items inside were to be cared for by the Main Historical Society. As you tour the house and learn the history of Maine, expect to be taken back in time as the majority of the household items are still on show and just as they were when the Wadsworth Longfellows lived there. More »

Western Cemetery

Sitting on the southern corner of Western Promenade along Vaughan St is the Western Cemetery where many of Portland's good and great are buried. It was built in 1829 and is the second oldest in town. Walk around inside the grounds and you'll find the graves of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's family, and several Maine Civil War veterans. It was regularly used for burials until 1910, but the last actual interment in the Western took place in 1987. More »

Western Promenade

Portland's Western Promenade is a neighborhood of picturesque, stately Victorian homes that sit at elevation over the city. When visibility is high, you can see out to the peaks of adjacent states. It is registered as a National Historic District, and the Victorian style was part of a mid-19th century campaign to revitalize the town. All of the homes along Western Promenade have a unique history, many designed by famous Portland architect John Calvin Stevens. If you love design, and especially this era in architecture, it is one of the best locations in the nation to scout out--you're sure to put your camera to good use in the shadow of these gorgeous mansions. More »