Theres something undeniably alluring about Portland, Maine.
Maybe its the scent of evergreens in the salty air.
Or, the quaint cobblestone streets that lead to the historic wharves.
Photo: Getty Images
Or, the endless array of hip shops, candle-lit restaurants, and lively bars.
Though the city is Maines most populous, it retains an appealing small-town vibe.
Not to mention: Some truly exceptionaleats.
Five of Clubs at Longfellow Hotel
But the hotels real gem?
Astraea Spa, which features a full roster of treatments as well as a sauna and meditation lounge.
Unlike traditional hotels that can feel too tired or trying, Blind Tiger embodies cozy and chic with ease.
One of Blind Tiger’s spacious guest rooms.
One of Blind Tigers spacious guest rooms.
A multi-story floor to ceiling wall stacked with typewriters welcomes guests to the Press Hotel.
Once thePortland Herald Pressheadquarters, the hotel elegantly embeds its journalism history with contemporary and clever twists.
Photo: Courtesy of Scales
The knowledgeable staff is eager to make the local fare fit every craving.
Try the gooey lobster grilled cheese or the crispy lobster taco.
Every Honey Paw meal should be finished with a soft-serve swirlthe flavors rotate seasonally.
Photo: Courtesy of Rose Foods
On Sundays, they even offer a special, Maine-inspired schmear: blueberry cream cheese.
For a sweet treat and a stellar cup of coffee, dont miss Tandem Bakery in East Bayside.
Just one note: Wi-fi isnt availablebut there are plenty of places to read and chat.
Photo: Courtesy of Via Vecchia
They also offer a curated selection of vinyl records for sale.
The elegant entrance makes you think for a second that you might actually be in Manhattan.
Terlingua is a Texas barbecue escape serving everything from smoked brisket to spicy chili in the East End.
Photo: Courtesy of Blythe & Burrows
Vegetarians will still find something to love with esquites and the corn, bean and mushroom frito tacos.
Also make note of the dollar oyster deal every Wednesday.
Maine Beer Company does more than IPAs and pilsners.
Photo: Courtesy of Judith
Sometimes the best meal is as simple as a pie and pint!
Marked with a vibrant mural off Washington Avenue, Oxbow is a buzzy brewery and beer garden.
The East End hotspot serves fermented farmhouse ales, cold brew flights, and fruity roses to boot.
Courtesy of the Portland Museum of Art
A perfect pick me up during days spent sipping cold ones.
Beyond clothes, the minimalist-minded store sells natural beauty products and modern home goods.
Take a spin in the shoes of local lobstermen on a cruise through Casco Bay.
The hands-on tour offers guests the opportunity to catch their own dinner and learn about all things lobsters.
Aboard a lobstering boat aptly named Lucky Catch, check on traps positioned around Portland’s harbor.
Covering the eastern corner of the city, the sprawling promenade features 180-degree views of Casco Bay.
Watch boats and barges head into the harbor while enjoying a picnic on the grassy lawn.
Local food trucks likeMr.
TunaandTotally Awesome Vegan Food Truckserve up everything from fresh sushi to jackfruit pastrami sandwiches.
