A Newcomers Portland.
If you've never been to Portland, trying to decide what to see in just one day could seem like a daunting task. So let us do it for you.
Breakfast at Mercury Inn
The day begins with freshly cooked breakfast from Mercury Inn, then a quick walk towards Hadlock Field where you can take a tour of the stadium or watch a Sea Dogs game. If you built up a small appetite on the walk over, stop by Holy Donut for a cup of coffee and a donut in an array of fun flavors, made of course with local Maine Potatoes.
A Short Walk Later
On the way into town make sure to take a look in scenic Deering Oak Park, where you can take a walk around the pond - there is even a playground for little kids.
If you're looking to do some shopping, Congress Street is your next destination.
A Trip Down Congress Street
Running straight through the center of Portland and offers an array of stores, coffee shops, and food. It is the perfect place to wander in and out of stores while enjoying Portland.
The Green Hand Bookstore
661 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 253-6808
Wednesday - Friday: 11AM - 6PM
Saturday: 11AM - 7PM
Sunday: 12PM - 5PM
It's easy to stop in and lose track of time in The Green Hand Bookstore. They have created their own style of used book stores by offering an eclectic mix of genres, from "classic to contemporary fiction, from academic to fringe non-fiction." While they carry every genre, they have an impressive selection of science fiction, influenced by the owner's love of H. P. Lovecraft.
The bookstore is filled to the brim, but well organized and easy to navigate. In many ways, it is a museum of literature, with a proprietor who is patient, helpful, and a true bibliophile. Take a piece of history off the shelf and back home with you.
Merchant Company
656 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 772-8525
Tuesday - Saturday: 11AM - 5PM
Sunday: 12PM - 5PM
Directly across the street from Green Hand, you will find a store that specializes in unique handmade arts, crafts, and vintage designs. Supported by local artists and vendors, Merchant Company has a little bit of everything, the perfect place to find gifts for friends and family, or just to find a creative piece of Portland to bring home with you. Whether it's a reclaimed barnwood painting from Mermaid Meadow, or laser cut knitting accessories by Katrinkles, Merchant Company has a never-ending supply of unique goods.
The Arts District
The Arts District or Portland Downtown is full of small, intimate galleries that display deeply personal one-of-a-kind pieces you cannot find anywhere else. If you have the time, stop into the Portland Museum of Art, the anchor for Downtown Portland's artistic culture, and view their newest collection.
If you happen to be in town on the first Friday of the month, the First Friday Art Walk is a great way to discover the creative side of the city.
Dinner at NOSH Kitchen Bar
551 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 553-2227
Monday - Saturday: 11:30AM - 1AM
Sunday: 4PM - 1AM
If you have an overwhelming desire for an out-of-the-box-burger, look no further than Nosh Kitchen Bar on Congress street. With neon lights and an industrial feel, a great bar and comfortable couches, it is easy to enjoy what Nosh has to offer.
For food, the crowd-pleasing Brunch Burger gives you the best of both worlds with a hamburger patty, crispy corned beef hash terrine, a fried egg, and hollandaise mayo, all on a grilled cinnamon bun. If you feel like mixing two meals in one may be a bit too much, try a the Nosh Mac n' Stack or Cubano. No matter what, order a side of bacon-dusted fries. You can thank us later.
For drinks, consider their Nosh Blossom (Cold River gin, elderflower liquor, lemon, seltzer), Garden Gimlet (muddled cucumbers and cilantro, lime juice, shaken with Hendrick's gin or Tito's vodka), or keep it simple with a local brew.
Bramhall
One of the hidden gems in Portland, Bramhall is an underground modern day speakeasy. Descending the stairs and pushing through the heavy curtains, you enter into a brick and stone lined chamber, lit mainly with candles and dim sconces.
Along with a thoughtful list of cocktails, Bramhall is known for one of the largest selections of bourbon and rums in the city. If you're looking for some food, they offer a menu of imaginative dishes at an affordable price. The bar is usually filled with locals catching up after a long day, and be on the lookout for bartender Josh whose lighthearted banter will keep you laughing through the night.
End of the Night
Though you won't be far from Mercury Inn, you may wish to grab a quick Uber home. Otherwise, enjoy a nice, comfortable walk back to the comforts of your room at the inn.