Literary Leanings

Literary Leanings

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Literary Leanings
Literary Leanings
A weekend in Portland, Maine

A weekend in Portland, Maine

So you're coming to Maine this summer...

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Michelle Martin
Jun 12, 2025
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Literary Leanings
Literary Leanings
A weekend in Portland, Maine
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I’m fresh off a weekend in Bar Harbor as I write today’s post, and the drive reminded me why I love Maine in the summer. We logged off work early on Friday afternoon and set out on the pine-lined highway north that slowly transitioned into lake-dotted back roads and eventually into winding, sweeping views of the ocean.

I spent most of the three-hour ride staring out the passenger window (while we listened to this audiobook), taking in the lobster shacks draped in buoys, wildflowers, and handwritten signs for fresh blueberries and firewood. No matter where you go, a weekend away in Maine just feels like summer.

a summer weekend in Maine cannot be beat

This time of year I’m often asked for recommendations from folks coming to Maine. Especially for Portland, where I live. So if you’re planning a visit (or even just dreaming of one), I’ve put together all my favorite Portland spots for you. From day trip ideas to restaurants to activities and, of course, bookstores.

This post is a long one and chock-full of information and photos! I recommend reading it on your browser and bookmarking it for future reference as you plan your trip. Alright, let’s go…

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