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Our Favorite Things to Do in Portland, Maine

Things to Do in Portland, Maine

Whether you are going on vacation or looking to move, Portland, Maine, is a superb option. There are many fun, informational things to do in this historic town.

About 40% of Maine’s residents live in the Portland metropolitan area, making it a hub for museums and entertainment. Also, strips of restaurants, clubs, and bars dot the city.

If you are visiting, read over our favorite things to do in Portland, Maine.

Portland Brewery Tours

If you ask anyone to recommend things to do in Portland, Maine, they will suggest visiting one of the many breweries. Portland is known to be one of America’s top beer cities thanks to the array of local brewers. The area holds over 20 microbreweries, which is a lot for the city’s population.

Allagash is one of the more well-known breweries in Portland. The brewery stands out for its Belgian-style drinks. The Allagash tour is free, and it includes tastings. Another popular option is the Shipyard Brewing Company, which is known for its English-style beverages, or Sebago, which produces their brew with the water from Sebago Lake State Park.

Cape Elizabeth

One of the fantastic things about visiting Portland is that you can visit Cape Elizabeth for free. This stretch of beaches is about nine miles south of Portland, but the breathtaking views make it worth it.

Cape Elizabeth is most well known for its lighthouses. This one mile stretch of beach has multiple lighthouses, gently flowing water, a nice sized shoreline, and flowery dunes depending on the time of year.

While visiting, you can check out Crescent Beach State Park. There is a snack bar, some picnic tables, restrooms, and a lifeguard during the summer for safety.

The Old Port

Once you arrive in Portland, you have to stop at the Old Port. There is no other transatlantic port in the United States that is closer to Europe than the Portland port. It is also the 20th largest fishing port in the country.

The Old Port is the most massive foreign inbound transit tonnage in the United States. You can walk along the port admiring the buildings, the boats, and the ocean. You can also stop at one of the many bars and restaurants that overlook the water.

Peak’s Island

If you are looking to spend a stress-free day, you can hop on the ferry and visit Peak’s Island. The ferry takes about 20 minutes, and it brings you to a small island where around 1,000 people reside.

There is so much to do once you arrive at Peak’s Island. You can rent golf carts to see the island, but more adventurous folks might opt for kayaks and bikes. There is fresh seafood available from all the local shops to eat for lunch, and you can end your day by seeing one of the beaches or museums.

Portland Museum of Art

Visiting the Portland Museum of Art is the last of our top things to do in Portland, Maine. This unique exhibit features over 18,000 pieces of American and European Art. According to its website, it would take you nearly ten years of constant gallery rotations to see every part.

The museum has new and older art pieces, including paintings, photos, sketches, furniture, ornate silverware, pottery, and sculptures. The Portland Museum of Art is typically open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday through Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday on Friday.

Besides looking at the exhibits, the museum also offers various tours, family activities, talks, movies, and other special events. It is an excellent visit for everyone!

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Our Favorite Vegan Restaurants in Boise, ID

Vegan Restaurants in Boise, ID

In light of the fact that Idaho boasts close to 25,000 farms and ranches, it’s no surprise that its capital city of Boise should have a thriving vegan food scene. Thanks to their commitment to supporting the state’s agricultural reputation by sourcing sustainable, local produce, Treasure Valley restaurants offer an abundance of vegan and plant-based options for foodies in Boise.

Here are Truckster’s favorite vegan restaurants in Boise.

High Note Cafe

High Note Cafe proudly offers 100% plant-based fresh food—no microwaves or freezers. The menu includes a gyro sandwich of grilled homemade seitan; a torta with spiced black bean puree, avocado, and mozzarella “cheese”; a horseradish cream melt of seitan and mozzarella; quesadillas; and street tacos. Also serves brunch featuring a breakfast burrito with scrambled organic tofu and High Note Potatoes scrambled with mushrooms, spinach, red bell peppers, pico de gallo, and avocado. (225 N. 5th St.)

Wild Root Cafe

Open Tuesday through Saturday, Wild Root Café has several à la carte vegan options including marinated tofu and sweet potato hash. It also has desserts such as vegan chia pudding, vegan shortbread, and a vegan matcha chocolate truffle. (276 N. 8th St.)

Lemon Tree Co.

This artisan eatery serves specialty lemonades, salads, soups, and oat dishes, plus vegan sandwiches such as the Massaman Curry Banh Mi, the Mushroom & Artichoke “Cheesesteak,” the Veggie Vinny featuring roasted yellow squash and zucchini, a Yam & Cheese with roasted garnet yams, and a Veggie Reuben with pastrami-spiced yams and apple-lime slaw. (224 N. 10th St.)

The Matador Boise

A downtown Boise favorite since 2010, the Matador Boise serves Mexican-inspired food and tequila including vegan dishes such as Butternut Squash Tostadas serviced with achiote-chile rice and black or refried beans, a Beyond Burger, and vegetarian enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. (215 N. 8th St.)

The Funky Taco

Originally cooking in the Funky Airstream One, this local staple since 2013 now has a brick-and-mortar location open Tuesday through Saturday. Vegan “nosh and noms” on the menu include “Flower Power,” featuring panko cauliflower and micro kale on smoked flower tortillas, and nachos with white corn chips, organic pinto beans, shiitake mushrooms, pickled jalapeno, and chipotle miso tahini. (801 W. Bannock St.)

RamaPong

This fun hangout offers a full bar along with vegan ramen options and ping-pong tables. Choose from several noodles—including gluten-free—broths such as sweet potato or charred onions and ginger. Ask for no soft-boiled egg and order a side of fried tofu instead. (204 N. Capitol Blvd., Suite 10)

Mai Thai

This Asian restaurant’s separate vegan menu includes sushi; pot stickers of mushroom, tofu, and eggplant; papaya salad; steamed bao buns with plant-based char siu; tofu and corn larb salad with sticky rice; vegan honey “duck”; and yellow curry. (750 W. Idaho St.)

Bombay Boise

Vegans can enjoy authentic Indian cuisine here including appetizers such as vegetable samosas and vegetable pakoras, as well as entrees such as Paneer Tikka Masala, Shahi Paneer, and Navrathan Korma. (928 W. Main St.)

Guru Donuts

Guru Donuts makes it tough to forget desserts with vegan treats such as apple fritters, a vanilla bean vegan cake donut, and vegan yeast donuts in Hipsterberry, Alice-in-Wonderland, and Sea Salt Chocolate flavors. (928 W. Main St. #100)

In addition to these fantastic brick-and-mortar restaurants, it’s worth noting that many of Boise’s food trucks also offer vegan dishes, as well as a variety of vegan cuisine. All of this can be seen as a part of the city’s mission to bring the freshest and healthiest foods to its residents while supporting local industry. The result is a delicious win-win for everybody.

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Top 5 Boise Wedding Venues

best Boise Wedding Venues

If you’re looking for a place to say “I do” in Boise, Idaho’s capital city has several standout locations offering panoramic views where you can share your special day with family and friends. If you and your sweetheart love the city’s food scene, why not invite one of the many local food trucks in Boise that offer catering to bring their dishes your way? Here are a few Boise wedding venues where we at Truckster can imagine a food truck or two rallying to celebrate a happy couple.

The Boise Art Museum

Known as the Boise Gallery of Art when it opened in 1937, the Boise Art Museum now sits within Julia Davis Park, giving couples a sophisticated and unique Boise wedding venue. The museum’s sculpture court has space for up to 250 guests and features ample natural lighting, high ceilings, banquet and cocktail tables, chairs, an in-house sound system, podium, microphone, and a prep room for catering. (670 Julia Davis Drive)

Discovery Center of Idaho

True love has chemistry at its core. Couples seeking a fun wedding venue to highlight that chemistry need look no further than the Discovery Center of Idaho. The state’s only hands-on science center, the Discovery Center can accommodate up to 600 guests after hours and allows them to check out all the interactive exhibit spaces. A perfect way for relatives and friends to mingle while you take photographs—or share some laughs with you. (131 W. Myrtle St.)

The Idaho Botanical Garden

Established in 1984, the Idaho Botanical Garden spans more than 30 lush acres in the base of Boise’s foothills, creating a stunning backdrop for any one of the themed gardens on the grounds. Some favorites include the English Garden, with its sandstone Summer House, Princess Diana Fountain, and more than 1,300 perennials, as well as the Meditation Garden, whose canopy provides respite from Boise’s hot summers while cooling the koi pond. In addition to a Boise wedding venue, the Idaho Botanical Garden is a stunning setting for rehearsals, receptions, or bachelor and bachelorette parties. Plus, you can rent the greenhouse if you’re concerned about rain in the forecast. (2355 N. Old Penitentiary Road)

Boise Depot

This beautiful historic Spanish-style structure with a 96-foot bell tower has been a prominent Boise landmark since 1925. Originally a Union Pacific railroad depot, it’s now operated by the Boise Parks and Recreation Department and serves as an elegant setting for weddings and other events. The Boise Depot has a remarkable view from its patio of the city’s skyline and foothills. Its Great Hall has six arched entrances, an airy 44-foot ceiling, and lovely natural light. The Boise Depot also includes Platt Gardens, a favorite wedding photo spot with a koi pond, a winding walkway, planter beds of seasonal flowers, and a monument of volcanic rock. (2603 W. Eastover Terrace)

Barber Park

Located along the Boise River, Barber Park has hosted outdoor as well as indoor weddings and receptions. More than 120 species of birds, including hummingbirds and bald eagles, nestle in the park’s large cottonwood forest. To share the warmth of your wedding indoors, the Event Center can hold up to 250 guests and has a cozy decor of wood and stone accidents, two fireplaces, large glass windows, and stained, stamped concrete floors. Rental includes tables, white wooden chairs, a sound system, projector and screen, access to the fireplaces, and a prep room for catering. (4049 S. Eckert Rd.)

Kathryn Albertson Park

Most of this special-use park spanning more than 40 acres is a wetland habitat for wildlife, but its walking paths, decorative fountain, and scenic lagoons create a luxuriant setting for a wedding or a reception. Rent one of two large gazebos among the flora and fauna for an intimate exchange of vows. (1001 N. Americana Blvd.)

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Meet Brittny Lowrey of The Happy Grilled Cheese ATX

Happy Grilled Cheese ATX

An interview with Brittny Lowrey, one of the owners of the Happy Grilled Cheese ATX

Location: Austin, TX

The name “The Happy Grilled Cheese ATX” tells you all you need to know, I mean who can be sad while eating a grilled cheese sandwich? Those with dietary restrictions excluded, of course. But this truck is much more than its name.

Brittny Lowrey, one of the owners of the truck, has been cooking all her life. Her passion manifested itself into mouth watering masterpieces like their Daddy of the Mac sandwich (BBQ Pulled Pork, Mac and Cheese, and Grilled Onions- holy yum). The concept originally started as a truck in Jacksonville, FL, and now they have restaurant locations and their food truck in Austin. Read the origin story of her cooking journey below:

What’s your favorite food memory?

All of the Thanksgiving meals I’ve cooked with my sisters. We each excel at different things in the kitchen. Together, we can create one incredible meal.

What’s the best part of running a food truck?

The customers. Food truck customers are a very laid back and relaxed group of people who are seeking out fun food and the experience of eating at a food truck.

If you were on Chopped and given pickled onions and pork belly, what would you make?

Fried Pork Belly Tacos topped with a creamy avocado salsa and pickled onions on corn tortillas.

What’s your favorite sandwich?

Cheesy Jalapeno Popper from Happy Grilled Cheese!

What’s the story behind your food truck name?

We kept it simple! Having what you sell in the name is so important for branding, and grilled cheese is the ultimate comfort food for so many people which makes them happy. Combine all that together and we have The Happy Grilled Cheese!

Happy Grilled Cheese

Your must-read cookbook or food blog?

I love Kristen Cavalleri’s cookbook line for recipes for clean eating, and my favorite national food blog to follow is Eater and their subsidiaries.

What is your favorite part of using Truckster?

Getting to visit great new communities around the city!

View The Happy Grilled Cheese on Truckster to find upcoming events: https://gotruckster.com/food-truck/happy-grilled-cheese

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Grilled Cheese: A Fan Favorite and a Winning Food Truck Concept

Grilled Cheese

The simple combination of grilled bread and cheese has been sustaining us for centuries. Grilled cheese and all of its delicious variations are enjoyed by cultures around the world, from the Croque monsieur (grilled ham and cheese) served in cafés and bars in France to the $1 sandwiches sold in the parking lots of every Phish show.

An American Staple

Nothing beats the traditional grilled cheese of our childhoods, of course – Kraft singles on white bread. The origin of this American classic can be traced back to the 1920’s when an Iowa man invented a bread-slicing machine and became “the father of sliced bread”. Grilled cheese became a humble staple, a Depression-era standby and a common meal for soldiers during World War II. Today it remains a common treat enjoyed by schoolchildren and drunk party-goers alike. We celebrate this wonder of grilled cheese and bread every year on April 12th. But this delicious treat should be celebrated every day of the year.

Enough Cheese for the Masses

It ain’t easy being this cheesy. America is one of the top producers of cheese worldwide, making 5 million tons of cheesy goodness each year. We eat plenty of it too: Americans eat approximately 2.2 billion grilled cheese sandwiches annually. 13 of those sandwiches helped Takeru Kobayashi set a world record for the most grilled cheese sandwiches eaten in a minute. Please save some of those for the rest of us!

The Perfect Grilled Cheese

Perfect Grilled Cheese

In 2013, the Royal Society of Chemistry and the British Cheese Board announced that they had calculated the formula for a perfect grilled cheese. They concluded that a cook time of 4 minutes produced a grilled cheese with the perfect consistency and taste. They also tested the effects of cook temperature and the thickness of cheese and bread. Even without using these precise proportions, a delicious grilled cheese is hard to mess up. If you want to leave the cooking to a professional or try out a more gourmet, unique take on the classic, check out one of our favorite food trucks grilling up the perfect grilled cheese for you.

 

Say Cheese

A final fun fact for you grilled cheese lovers: a 2015 survey found that grilled cheesers are more likely to be charitable than those who don’t like grilled cheese.

So pat yourself on the back and go get yourself a delicious grilled cheese!

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Boise, ID

Tourist Attractions in Boise ID

Established during the 1800s, Boise is Idaho’s capital and most populous city, full of outdoor and cultural attractions that are no small potatoes (pardon the pun). Here are the top ten tourist attractions in Boise, ID, that make locals proud.

Boise River Greenbelt

Stretching 25 miles along the Boise River, the tree-lined Boise River Greenbelt runs through the city center while linking to the Lucky Peak State Recreation Area, Kathryn Albertson Park, Julia Davis Park, and attractions including the Boise State University campus. The city even has a scavenger hunt and map on its website that encourages viewers to explore the trail, whether on foot, in-line skates, or bicycles.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

Called “Old Pen,” this prison on the National Register of Historic Places housed more than 13,000 inmates over its 101 years of operation before closing in 1973. Visitors can see the Gallows, the solitary confinement area, and other educational exhibits, plus take in a cemetery tour or paranormal investigation. (2445 Old Penitentiary Road)

Idaho Botanical Garden

An Old Pen prison yard has been transformed into a gorgeous landscape. Established in 1984, the Idaho Botanical Garden occupies more than 30 acres with 14 specialty gardens themed around succulents, native Idaho plants, vegetables, herbs, meditation, and roses. (2355 Old Penitentiary Road)

Basque Museum and Cultural Center

The Basque community of northern Spain has close ties to Boise, thanks to Basque sheepherders who first settled here in the late 19th century. Learn about their unique culture both abroad and in Idaho through oral history archives, a replica sheep wagon, traditional music, and other artifacts and photographs housed in the historic Cyrus Jacobs/Uberuaga house, one of the few existing examples of a Basque boarding house. (611 Grove Street)

Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial

Anne Frank, the Jewish teenager whose diary offered a personalized view into World War II, receives a place of honor in this memorial’s “Attic,” but the memorial and gardens contain more than 60 quotes from and tributes to human rights leaders throughout history. (777 S. 8th Street)

Julia Davis Park

A scenic spot with rose gardens, lagoons, and a duck pond, Julia Davis Park also houses several Boise attractions, including the Discovery Center of Idaho, Zoo Boise, the Idaho Historical Museum, the Idaho Black History Museum, and the Boise Art Museum. (700 S. Capitol Boulevard)

World Center for Birds of Prey

Meet eagles, condors, falcons, and other majestic feathered residents whose young are released into the wild. The center hosts live presentations, educational exhibits, and a quarter-mile nature trail for spotting raptors in the wild. (5668 West Flying Hawk Lane)

Idaho State Capitol Building

Extensively restored in 2010, the Idaho State Capitol Building has several self-guided displays and exhibits. It originally was completed in 1920 using locally sourced sandstone and marble from Vermont, Georgia, Alaska, and Italy. Atop the dome is a five-foot-high statue of a golden eagle. (700 W. Jefferson St.)

Downtown Boise

Near the Idaho State Capital Building, Boise’s central business district is a vibrant place to dine and shop, plus enjoy the nightlife and sporting events, such as Boise State Broncos football games at Albertsons Stadium. The city’s calendar has an ever-changing lineup, along with staples such as two farmers markets operating from spring to winter. And when you get hungry, be sure to check out all the best food trucks in Boise, as well as the top restaurants!

Ridge to Rivers

Although the Boise Foothills provide a stunning backdrop for the city, they also contain an interconnected network of roads and a 190-mile trail system for runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and families. Rent a bike from downtown and access the Cottonwood Creek Trailhead, east of the Idaho State Capitol Building. (3188 Sunset Peak Rd.)

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Top 10 Restaurants in Portland, ME

Restaurants in Portland, ME

When you visit Portland, Maine, you want to make sure you hit all the famous restaurants before you go. You might not have time to check the reviews before stopping to eat, so here are the top 10 restaurants in Portland, ME.

You may notice we included Portland, ME food trucks on this list. These are a great alternative to sit down style restaurants, perfect for when you are short on time or don’t want to be surrounded by many people.

  1. Flatbread Company

Everyone loves to eat pizza. When you visit the Flatbread Company, you can expect great pizza while overlooking Casco Bay. The atmosphere and food are perfect.

There are a handful of seating options to fit the needs of their guests. You can sit in their spacious dining room and enjoy your food in the air conditioning. However, you will want to sit out by the dock if the weather is nice. It is the ideal place to eat flatbread pizza while gazing over the water.

  1. Boda

Boda is the go-to place in Portland, Maine, for cocktails and Thai food. This exquisite restaurant features a wide variety of Thai dishes, including quail eggs, spicy wings, pad thai, and more.

Another great thing about Boda is that they are open late, so you can get their delicious food until 1 a.m. Whether you need to eat a quick lunch or want to enjoy a meal after a night out, Boda is the place to go.

  1. The Back Bay Grill

The Back Bay Grill may be the perfect spot to go for a fancy evening out. This high-end restaurant is well known for its hand-rolled pasta and fantastic seafood dishes. Pop open a bottle of wine and enjoy an elegant dinner in low lighting for your next anniversary dinner in Portland, Maine.

  1. Solo Italiano

Solo Italiano is one of the most beloved restaurants in Portland, ME to get Italian food. The menu here changes daily, but you will not be disappointed with the chef’s choices. Salads, pasta, or seafood, whatever you are craving, you can find at Solo Italiano.

Another significant aspect of visiting this restaurant is the wine list. They have an extensive array of all their best wines ready for their guests. Whether you’re in the mood for a glass of red or white wine, the staff at Solo Italiano can answer all of your questions and provide an excellent pairing.

  1. Rose Foods

The bagels from Rose Foods are top of the line. You can’t visit Portland without making a stop and trying one of these bagels.

There are six different bagels available every day. There are always five classic flavors and one specialty that rotates out. You can order a dozen bagels to take home or choose from 11 handcrafted sandwiches for a fantastic breakfast.

  1. Salvage BBQ

Not everyone is a massive fan of seafood, and that’s okay. Just because Portland, Maine is known for its lobster doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit. Stopping at Salvage BBQ is a must when you’re in town.

This restaurant serves up classic barbecue and plenty of hearty sides to go with your meal. They have trivia on Wednesdays, along with live music every Friday and Saturday. Come for the food or the environment; either way, you won’t be disappointed.

  1. The Holy Donut

The restaurant name is fitting, considering the Holy Donut produces some of the best donuts on the East Coast. There are two locations in Portland, so you’re never far from these sweet treats. The donuts are slightly denser than your typical donut, but delicious regardless.

  1. Bite into Maine

Bite into Maine has two locations in Portland, and they almost always have a line. Here you can get six different types of lobster rolls that are all under $20. Bite into Maine has a food truck next to the lighthouse at Cape Elizabeth, and it is worth the drive. You can order your food and explore Cape Elizabeth while enjoying your delicious lobster roll.

  1. Artemisia Cafe

Artemisia Cafe is one of the top brunch restaurants in Portland, ME. You can find all of your classic brunch foods on the menu and feel at home in the environment. This little spot is beautiful to visit, and it opens a bit earlier than most places in Portland, so you don’t have to wait until 11 a.m. to get brunch.

  1. Oxbow Blending and Bottling

Before you leave Portland, make sure to visit Oxbow Blending and Blotting. They have one location in Portland, with another about 10 miles away. You can find events often, but you’ll want to check it out either way. They have tons of brew and wine to try, as well as all your typical bar foods. The restaurant even has an art gallery that you can look through before you leave.

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Meet Sébastien Idée of Seb’s Pizzas

Sébastien Idée of Seb’s Pizzas

An interview with Sébastien Idée, owner and operator of Seb’s Pizzas.

Location: Denver, CO

Sébastien Idée

There are so many reasons to love Sébastien with Seb’s Pizzas. Besides being incredibly friendly and having that oh so charming French accent, he is an absolute pro food truck operator. We know when we recommend him for an event that the client will be more than happy with his service, his staff, and the quality of his food. Wood fired pizzas are always a crowd pleaser, and even more so when you layer on his fresh ingredients, gourmet approach, and French appeal.

Read on to hear more about his love of food and what it’s like to run Seb’s Pizzas.

We live for food:

What’s your favorite sandwich?

A French style tuna sandwich

What’s your favorite guilty pleasure food?

Foie gras

Your must read cookbook or food blog?

Larousse de la Cuisine

If you were on chopped and given pickled onions and pork belly, what would you make?

Creole pizza

What’s your favorite food memory?

Catering a 6 dish wedding for 250 people

A look into the life of a food truck owner:

Seb's Signature Dish

What is your truck’s signature dish?

The Potato pizza: creme fraiche, roasted potatoes, bacon, onions, French Brie and parsley

What is your most memorable review / comment on your food?

Trip Advisor award for the best Boulder pizza

What’s the best part of running a food truck?

Providing culinary joy to my customers

What is your favorite part of using Truckster?

Catering leads

View Seb’s Pizzas on Truckster to find his upcoming events or book him for catering: https://gotruckster.com/food-truck/sebs-pizzas

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5 Best Wedding Venues in Portland, ME

Wedding Venues in Portland ME

Planning a wedding will likely be the most fun and the most stressful time of your life. You will want to make sure every aspect is perfect and as you had envisioned it. One of the critical steps in planning your dream wedding is finding the ideal venue.

Finding the right venue

Modern times have brought back the outdoor wedding, and Maine is home to many amazing views. The scenery is beautiful, but you might have trouble narrowing down the top wedding venues in Portland, ME.

You want to consider the size of the venue, the ambiance, and the meal options. To see the size and ambiance, touring the space and seeing photos of past receptions will help you find suitable options.

When it comes to food, you want to ask about options for those with dietary restrictions. If a space doesn’t offer vegetarian or vegan options, don’t worry! You can always turn to Portland food trucks for help. There are plenty of vegan food trucks available in Portland, and they can help save your day.

Our top 5 wedding venues in Portland, ME

Diamond’s Edge Restaurant and Marina

Diamond’s Edge Restaurant and Marina is a classic favorite for hosting a reception. This waterfront wedding venue overlooks the crystal waters of Diamond’s Cove. Get together with up to 250 of your friends and family at this beautiful location. The location actually offers three wedding venues.

When it’s warm outside, ask about the McKinley Grove Event Site. It comes with a Sperry tent with retractable slides and a dance floor to add to the fun.

If you want a more intimate feel, The Art Gallery is another option. This building can seat up to 80 guests, and it’s well known for its high ceilings and rustic atmosphere.

For 20 to 50 guests, The Patio is your best option. This large lawn is perfect for watching the boats ride by.

There are additional services you can add to your wedding. Some of these include on-site catering, coffee service, bar service, a wedding specialist, champagne toasts, and cake cutting. Diamond’s Edge gives you everything you need to throw an amazing wedding.

The Barn at Smith Farm

Another breathtaking outdoor venue in Portland is the Barn at Smith Farm. This venue is perfect for a smaller setting; the maximum number of guests it can hold is 150. It is an affordable barn on a ranch with fantastic photo opportunities.

Although small, the wedding venue comes with a lot of options. You have access to catering services, a fully equipped kitchen, a full bar, and lounge, as well as wireless internet and a waterfront experience.

Brick South at Thompson’s Point

There is no better place for a big wedding than Brick South at Thompson’s Point. This property consists of 25,000 square feet and has many noteworthy features. You get a nice blend of elegance and rustic features, as well as an industrial feel.

Brick South has rough-hewn wood and steel beams, polished concrete floors, and open ceilings to make your day perfect. There are wooden panel room dividers you can use to create a secluded setting and bistro string lighting to set the mood.

Rising Tide Brewing Company

The Rising Tide Brewing Company is one of the most lively wedding venues in Portland, ME. If you are looking to visit a newly renovated space in East Bayside, Rising Tide is for you.

There are three separate areas available to rent, ranging from semi-private to entirely private rooms. When renting the private East Room, you pay hourly, and the tables, chairs, AV/PA system, private bar, and outside patio space are all included.

Rising Tide’s rooms come in various sizes, with some holding 40 guests and others seating up to 150 people.

The Press Hotel

The Press Hotel rounds out our list of the five best wedding venues in Portland, ME. The space is built to accommodate an intimate to a medium-sized wedding. It can hold up to 100 guests for a reception or 70 guests for a banquet.

The Composing Room has expansive windows to feature natural lighting as well as handcrafted paneling inside. Their Editorial Room is smaller, holding up to 45 guests, but it is still as intricate and beautiful as the others.

If you are hosting a rehearsal dinner, the News Room holds up to 15 guests.

The Press Hotel also provides parking, valet, wireless internet, and in-house catering.

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Fun Fairs and Festivals in Portland, Maine

Fairs And Festivals In Portland Me

Whether you are visiting or if you have just moved to the area, there are tons of fun fairs and festivals in Portland, Maine that you can check out. The city has events for the holidays and a few fairs that have become local traditions.

Whether you prefer a fair over a festival or vice versa, all of the events we listed below are worth checking out at least once. The breathtaking sights and unforgettable adventures will keep everyone in your family entertained.

Below are 5 of the best fun fairs and festivals in Portland, Maine.

1. Bug Light Kite Festival

The Bug Light Kite Festival is one of the most whimsical sights you will see. It comes around annually and is always held on the third weekend in May.

People fill the sky above Bug Light Park with every kite you can think of for this magical event. You will see pink, blue, yellow, green, sparkly, light up, and any other kites you can imagine.

Admission to the event is free, but many guests purchase hotdogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers, fries, and more available from the local barbeque. All proceeds are donated to a local organization, so you get to eat while giving back to the community.

2. Cumberland Fair

For the more adventurous crew, as well as kids, the Cumberland Fair may be an attractive choice. This is a traditional fair that has been going on since the 1800s.

There are so many things to do when you visit the Cumberland Fair. You can enjoy yourself on the wide variety of carnival rides and then stop by the petting zoo. As your day winds down, you can grab some of the famous fair foods. Satisfy your craving with some cotton candy and enjoy the lights and laughter.

3. Street Eats and Beats

One of the most popular food truck events in Portland Maine, and nationwide, is the Street Eats and Beats. This event has come to Portland, every summer for the last six years. You can find food for everyone at this food truck meet up.

This event is great for food lovers who want to try meals from other states, but it also for anyone who loves live music. Gather together to listen to some up and coming artists perform live while eating and drinking top of the line beer and wine.

4. Freeport Fall Festival

Get into the spooky season with the Freeport Fall Festival. This festival promises a fun day filled with art and music. It goes on every year in October, just in time for Halloween and the change of seasons.

Over 100 artist exhibits feature oil and watercolor paintings, fine crafts, jewelry, mixed media, and photographs. After you get a good look at all the fantastic artwork, you can shop at local stores, get something to eat, or enjoy the live music.

Don’t forget to participate in the Chowdah Challenge, one of the most fun aspects of the Freeport Fall Festival. People from across the city prepare their best chowder, and the public can sample each dish and vote for their favorite.

5. Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

The Christmas Boat Parade of Lights is one of the most beautiful festivals in Portland, Maine. This event is also known as the Portland Harbor Christmas Boat Parade.

Every year around Christmas time, the Portland Harbor is filled with a surplus of lit-up boats. You can watch from the waterfront as the boats twinkle under the stars. Keep your eyes open, and you might see Santa hitching a ride. To cap off the night, the sky is lit up with fireworks to celebrate the ending of a great year.