Greater Portland And Casco Bay - Maine Real Estate

Lifestyle

The greater Portland area and surrounding Casco Bay communities comprise a vibrant, fast-growing residential area. Portland has become a mecca for innovative cuisine, craft beer and artistic enterprise and has earned a reputation as a somewhat sophisticated but slightly funky destination. Great restaurants, interesting retail shops, and a handful of museums all centered around a working waterfront create a unique vibe.

Cape Elizabeth, to the south of Portland is home to one of the most recognized images of Maine: Portland Head Light. Cape Elizabeth is right in the bay and has a quiet, genteel feel. Scarborough, just to the west, features a 3100 acre marsh and terrific birdwatching. This town is also the location of artist Winslow Homer’s studio. Further north, if you’re looking for some serious retail therapy, Freeport will not disappoint. Home of the flagship LL Bean store, the town is filled with factory outlets as well as other shops. The islands of Casco Bay are characterized by a unique lifestyle: island living revolves around the water and the weather. People tend to be informal and down-to-earth. However, these islands are so close to Portland, that residents don’t feel the typical remoteness island-dwellers often feel; it’s so easy to get to Portland and “back to civilization”. All of the towns and villages surrounding Portland are less populated and quieter than the city, but offer the advantage of being near a thriving downtown center. The Portland/Casco Bay region offers plenty of culture, art and entertainment as well as a surprising amount of natural beauty and access to outdoor activities.