4 Compelling Reasons You'll Regret Skipping Portland, Maine This Summer
Portland juts into Casco Bay, surrounded by nearly 140 lush, mostly uninhabited islands (plus a handful of inhabited ones). This blend of wild charm and sophistication makes it a true stunner. The historic center's centuries-old architecture and briny seaside vibe remain much as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow described his hometown in his famous 1855 poem: "the beautiful town that is seated by the sea."
Vintage appeal and modern innovation coexist seamlessly here. With exciting events tailored to summer 2018, there's truly no better time to visit. Here are four standout reasons:
1. The Culinary Scene Just Got Even Better
After nearly a decade as Bon Appétit’s “America’s Foodiest Small Town,” Portland continues to raise the bar. Now boasting more celebrity chefs than ever, the city offers a new way to experience them all.
Starting June 5 and running Tuesdays through Saturdays until November, the Maine Food for Thought tour visits six top spots: Union, Evo Kitchen + Bar, Solo Italiano, Scales, East Ender, and Piccolo. This three-hour, $72 experience provides VIP access, chef meet-and-greets, exclusive tasting menus, and insights into the local farmers, fishermen, and foragers who make it all possible.
2. Time for a Wine Pilgrimage
Already a beer powerhouse (catch the Maine Brewers Guild Summer Session Beer Festival on July 28) and cocktail haven (try Blyth & Burrows), Portland launches its first major wine event June 18-24: Portland Wine Week. Curated by sommelier Erica Archer, it features nearly 50 sellout events like winemaker dinners, sparkling wine sails, wine walks, paired performances, and seminars.
Ongoing highlights include blind tastings at MJ’s Wine Bar and Bivalves & Bubbles pairings at the Shop.
3. Unprecedented High-Seas Adventures
With deep maritime roots and ongoing commercial activity, Portland's sea connections run deep. This summer elevates leisure sailing: The Atlantic Cup brings its largest-ever fleet June 4-10, while the new Portland Schoonerfest and Regatta features tall ships June 22-24.
A highlight is the new yacht Nicte Ha from Calendar Islands Sailing Co., offering customizable overnight charters from $350 per person. Options include island-hopping, beachcombing, village visits, or even elopements, with three daily gourmet meals and drinks included.
4. A New Music Festival Hits the Scene
Portland's summer calendar shines with events like the Old Port Festival (June 10), Bach Virtuosi Festival (June 17-24), and Yarmouth Clam Festival (July 22-24).
Joining them on June 24 is the debut SummerSide Music and Arts Festival at Urban Farm Fermentory, headlined by bluesy folk-rock acts. Don't miss the hard Dry Cidah. Expect visual artists, culinary demos, and perhaps the next great Portland poet.
