As fall begins, consider squeezing in a visit to
tourist-friendly Portland, Maine. Planning a trip after Labor Day ensures you
beat the crowds. Here are the places you need to know for the best day experience.
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| Eastern "Prom" - Portland, Maine |
Walk: Portland Trails*:
Back Cove Trail
Distance: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Free at lot
across from Hannaford on Preble Street Extension
The Back Cove Trail is a loop trail (3.5 miles) which boasts
beautiful views of the Portland skyline, the occasional marsh wildlife such as
Great Blue Herons, and perfect for walking, running, and biking. The terrain is
with mostly flat except along a stretch that parallels I-295. There are benches
and water fountains (seasonal) along the trail.
*A network of trails in greater Portland, free for public
access. Full map here: http://trails.org/our-trails/
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| Hilltop Superette Counter |
Lunch with a View: Hilltop Superette @ 135 Congress St.
Fare: Deli style
sandwiches, pizza ($1.79 slices), and hamburgers
The 80-year-old store has been recently raised back from the
ashes as it was
nearly destroyed by arson last year (previously Colucci’s). Now the local
market (opened July 2014) is bustling in the Munjoy Hilll neighborhood. The
menu boasts local produce and breads from Borealis Breads. I highly recommend
the Italians, especially the Spicy Superette if you like a little kick. Grab a
bag of chips to share, drinks, and walk down the street towards the Eastern
Promenade for a picnic style lunch with a view of Casco Bay and surrounding
islands.
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| Infinity Beer Barrels |
Beer: Bunker Brewing
Company @ 122 Anderson St.
Summer Hours: Thurs &
Fri 5-8pm, Sat 12-5 Call before
stopping by
Website: http://bunkerbrewingco.com/
This microbrewery was established in 2011 and has quickly made a
name for itself. Nestled off Anderson St. in a 1920s era brick garage in the
developing neighborhood of East Bayside. You will experience a small artisan
brewery that founders Chresten Sorensen and Jay Villani believe to be the
future of beer. If you appreciate a good pilsener try their Machine Czech Pils
(flagship brew). The Peninsula Pale Ale is a local favorite. Feed your
competitive edge and challenge your party (or locals) to a game of corn hole
just outside the garage.
Dinner: Corner Room @
110 Exchange St.
Fare: Italian Kitchen
& Bar
Happy Hour:
Mon-Thurs 4-6pm (complimentary tapas to
pair with drinks)
Late Night Menu:
Thurs-Sat ‘Til 11pm
Website (menu): http://www.thecornerroomkitchenandbar.com/
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| Corner Room Restuarant |
An open kitchen restaurant invokes a warm and cozy atmosphere
with house-made pastas, pizzas, antipasti, and artisanal breads made from local
ingredients. Small patio available for dining. The Corner Room is one of the
four “Rooms” restaurants owned by chef Harding Lee Smith.
Dessert: Bar of Chocolate
@ 38 Wharf St.
Fare: Wine, Dessert, and
Espresso Bar
Hours: 4pm-12am everyday
Walk down Exchange St. to Wharf St. and the Bar of Chocolate
after dinner at the Corner Room. This the perfect place to visit after a nice
meal and its hidden in plain sight! Wharf Street is in the absolute heart of
the old port and is one of the few historic cobble stone streets remaining. The
Bar of Chocolate is small and cozy and always has excellent locally made treats
stocked in the dessert case ranging from flour-less chocolate cake to blueberry
pie. Pair your desert with your favorite wine, cocktail, or tea/espresso for a
wonderful cap to your day.
MEET THE EXPERT: Jenny Galasso - Portlander
Jenny is a blogger and local to Portland, Maine. She is an expert on Maine adventures, restaurants, and hidden gems. View other posts that feature Jenny by clicking keyword "Jenny" on the side bar.