From Apply Now,
Your Guide to Portland, ME.
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South Portland may just be Maine's most unappreciated city. Most people think of it as the home of the Maine Mall and the Portland Jetport and never venture into the heart of the city to explore the gems that can be found there: the historic harbor, beautiful Portland Harbor Light which is known affectionately as Bug Light, Spring Point Ledge Light, Willard Beach, the Greenbelt Walkway, and more.

South Portland has miles of waterfront on the Fore River, Portland Harbor, and Casco Bay. To visit the shore side of town, which many Mainers as well as visitors to the state never see, follow Broadway east. The roads can be confusing, and you may end up having to do a little backtracking.

Portland and South Portland are separated by the Fore River. On the bay side of South Portland, Spring Point is surrounded by Casco Bay and offers great views of the islands and the breakwater leading to Spring Point Ledge Light, which sticks up at the mouth of the harbor like a giant spark plug. The lighthouse and the ruins of Fort Preble are reachable from the waterfront campus of Southern Maine Technical College on Fort Road. From the park you can see the entire Portland skyline across the water.

Portland is known for its restaurants and its walking paths, but South Portland also boasts a number of excellent eateries and miles of waterfront trails and walkways.

The relatively new Saltwater Grille on Front Street serves fresh seafood, steaks, and chicken in a picturesque waterfront setting. Go near dusk for spectacular sunset views of Portland Harbor and the Portland skyline.

Newick's is an old-time favorite for lobster and seafood prepared in every way imaginable. Just across the Casco Bay Bridge from Portland, Newick's is only minutes from Portland's Old Port.

Joe's Boathouse, located in Spring Point Marina, serves lunch and dinner plus a Sunday brunch. For casual seafood and grilled specialties in a wonderful waterfront setting, you can't beat it.

The Snow Squall restaurant on Ocean Street is known for fresh Maine seafood and also offers chicken, veal and beef dishes. Saturday and Sunday brunches are popular. Best of all, the restaurant is located on the water just across the river from Portland.

If you enjoy exploring on foot, don't miss the Greenbelt Walkway, a three-mile, paved path that follows the shore for much of the way and connects to the Spring Point Shoreway, a mile-long walking trail that goes to Bug Light Park, home of what may be the world's most elegant lighthouse, Portland Harbor Light, or Bug Light.

In addition to remarkable views, the lighthouse, and the walking paths, Bug Light Park offers salt water fishing and boat ramps.

Spend a little time exploring South Portland, away from Route One and the Interstate. You won't be disappointed.