A Visit to Portland

I was very excited to visit Portland, Maine. And something about that city struck me, and still does strike me, as incredibly wonderful. In mid-June, the weather was both gray and breezy and blue and warm. Both iterations suited the Port city just fine. 

Situated on beautiful Casco Bay in the southeastern part of the state, this is Maine's metropolis, if you can really call it such. For a smaller city, it really is vibrant, bustling, and filled with abundant charm of both the architectural and business variety.

Upon arriving by the waterside, our first order of business was to take a sightseeing tour. The wind whipped us as we stopped at various points in the city, but it really is a recommendable way to view a city. I was impressed by the variety of architectural styles to be found in Portland. Frame houses mingle with stately stone manses, and a few days really didn't do my eyes justice. 

Sights were seen (the imposing Victoria Mansion, circa 1858, was a treasure, and the private tour was a special bonus), delicious food was had (I lost track of how many lobster rolls I devoured whilst in Maine) and delicious beverages sipped (kudos to the bartender's at the excellent Sonny's), and relaxation was enjoyed. I hope to get back to Vacationland eventually, because there's plenty more fun to be had and plenty more historicness to ogle. More Portland-centric shots below.

  











photos copyright Megan Petty

In Photos - Stonington, ME

Stonington, Maine. June 2013.

Photos copyright Megan Petty

A Visit to Bar Harbor

Two years ago right around this time, I was heading up to Maine for a trip with my best friend. Neither of us had been to Vacationland, and we decided it was high time we went. It was my birthday present to myself, and I do so love being on vacation on my birthday. I found Maine to be stunningly beautiful, and bucolic in a way that one just doesn't see in places like the DC metro area. The air was clear, the trees and landscapes so green.

Bar Harbor was a special place to see. The town itself is charming, and the nearby Acadia National Park offers breathtaking vistas in whatever direction you happen to find yourself looking. There's great food to be had (over the course of my Maine week I consumed quite a few delectable lobster rolls), friendly people (who seem incredibly tolerant of tourists), and plenty of historic architecture to ogle. 

Sadly, much of the town's spectacular summer "cottages," built by rich vacationers, burned in the first half of the 20th century when a huge fire swept through town. It could have been much worse, however, and the town keeps the memory of those buildings alive. Crumbling stone steps can be seen on the outskirts of Bar Harbor, some with names still etched in the gray stone. It feels a bit spooky, walking along and passing the ruins. But peaceful, too.

All told, the few days spent in Bar Harbor were wonderful. It's a great place to spend time in, and truly does offer something for everyone. More photos of Bar Harbor and Acadia below.   

photos copyright Megan Petty