Maine Greater Portland & Casco Bay Region

In the Greater Portland and Casco Bay Region, the bustling piers of the Old Port in Portland hum with activity. The city of Portland is a unique and inviting blend of quaint cobblestone charm and big city night life. Fishing is the lifeblood of this region. Boats of every size and color dot the waterfront, bells ring out, foghorns thunder and the salty scent of fresh fish fills the air. Lobster boats offer that day?s catch to local chefs and grocery stores. The pubs, shops and restaurants of Portland buzz with tourists, locals and fishermen alike, creating a convivial atmosphere where everyone is welcomed. Portland?s vibrant performing arts scene and world-class theater are part of why locals call the city New England?s best kept secret. There?s so much to do here?from food and wine festivals to professional baseball games, trolley tours to art gallery exhibits?that you can easily spend an entire vacation in Portland. To the north of Portland, discover the many islands of Casco Bay, the mysterious Desert of Maine, and Yarmouth?s many treasures. You?ll also find Freeport, home of Maine?s iconic outfitter, L.L. Bean. Casco Bay has a natural deep-water harbor that doesn?t freeze. As such, the port of Portland is also a destination to experience as over 50 cruise ships dock each year between June and November. Explore the rocky coastline south of Portland, home to many of this region?s historic forts and iconic lighthouses. On the cliffs of Cape Elizabeth, is the Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park, Maine?s oldest lighthouse. Still active, its light can be seen from 24 miles away, a sight which will take your breath away at night.