Fun things for couples to do in portland maine

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Maine is known for many things: thick forests, the elusive moose, bald eagles, fields of wild blueberries, and of course fresh lobster. Maines largest city, Portland, has a population of less than 250,000, which offers the best of both worlds. Portland is a city on the Atlantic which has a small town atmosphere, but offers all the entertainment and culture of a big city. Recently named the best place in the country to raise children, couples will want to consider Portland, Maine as a potential vacation spot, or just a great place to spend the day.

Portland boasts a wonderful collection of historic buildings, a working harbor, museums and galleries, shopping, and wonderful paths, sidewalks and views for those who want to walk the city. A couple might start out down town in the art district, exploring the cobblestone streets, eclectic shops and historic landmarks which give Portland its charm. Included in this tour will be the Portland Museum of Art, the McLellan House and L.D.M. Sweat Memorial Galleries, and the Winslow Homer Gallery. The Portland Museum of Art is pleased to offer special shows of world renowned artists and even hosts wedding receptions.

If music is a couples passion, the Portland Symphony Orchestra is a powerful, soothing musical experience. The symphonys home is the stunning Merrill Auditorium where these talented musicians make music that pleases all tastes and interests.

Portland gets its name from the Old Port, found, obviously, at the Waterfront District. The Old Port is still a working waterfront, with the typical sights, sounds and smells of boats, fishing and seagulls, but it is also a charming shopping and entertainment district, offering fine dining, unusual boutiques and shops, and nightlife to suit every fancy.

Of course, the Old Port isnt the only place to find fine dining. Portland has a plethora of restaurants to fit every taste and budget. Couples can enjoy a special, elegant night out at the Portland Regency Hotel or a relaxed, patio waterfront experience of shellfish and lobster rolls at Js Oyster. Portland also offers small town restaurants, country inns and even sporting camps that serve home-style cooking.

Maine is known for its many lighthouses and a visit to Portland would not be complete without exploring the Portland Head Light. Located in Cape Elizabeth, just south of Portland, couples can take a guided tour and visit the museum and gift shop. Find out just how far you can see from the Portland Head Light.

And similar to a lighthouse, but emphatic that it is not, is the Portland Observatory, built in 1807. Towering over the east end of Munjoy Hill, the Observatory was built by former sea captain, Lemuel Moody, in what was, at the time, a cow pasture. Now surrounded by quaint historic buildings, the Observatory is a historic site, offering educational programs and guided tours.

If a couple seeks sporting events, Portland has all the excitement of big city sports without the extreme crowds and parking. The Portland Sea Dogs Baseball and the Portland Pirates Hockey are both beloved teams by locals and are part of the whole Portland, Maine experience.

Portland also has its share of beaches, right near the city, and up and down the coast nearby. While the water is usually too cold in which to spend a lot of time, Maine summers are warm and mild, and the beaches are scenic and uncrowded. Couples can spend a sunny day or a romantic evening on one of the local beaches.

The next time you are looking for a romantic weekend away or a fun vacation in a new place, consider Portland, Maine. Go there and find out why the locals call Maine Vacationland.