20 Jun Sustainable Summers in Portland, Maine
Portland, ME is not only home to some of the best Lobster in the world, but is also the perfect place to travel if you are looking to have a green summer vacation. Ranked as one of the Top Tier Sustainable Cities in the United States, Portland is currently leading the way with green initiatives. From developing programs that minimize food waste, such as Agri-cycle and Garbage to Garden to incorporating environmental sustainability throughout the entire city, take a look at some of the many reasons for vacationing here!
Stay at the Eco-Certified Hyatt Place in Old Port, ME :
Hyatt Place, Portland Old Port
With balconies overlooking the sparkling waters of Casco Bay, this green certified hotel hosts LED Lighting and TV’s, Otis ReGen Elevators with Efficient Gearless Machines, Electric Car Charging Stations, Energy Recovery Ventillators and many other Eco-Friendly Features. The best part is that it is located right in the heart of Downtown Old Port and within walking distance to many restaurants, shops and boating excursions!
Balcony View overlooking Casco Bay
Spend the Day at the Old Port Festival in June:
This festival’s focus is all about Music, Art and the Community. The festival kicks off in early June and features some of the BEST street food that Maine has to offer, artisans lining the streets to sell locally made products and art, live entertainment and music on four stages all powered with green energy by Maine Green Power.
Partying with some Kiddos at the Children’s Stage
Check out the children’s stage and explore the area, as well as a kick-off parade, but know that this festival is truly entertaining for all ages!
Enjoy locally roasted coffee and artisanal baked goods at Scratch Baking Co. and have a picnic at Willard Beach in South Portland.
Handcrafted Sweets at Scratch Baking Co.
To say that Scratch has amazing pastries, sandwiches, and coffee is an understatement. Almost everything in this place is made in small batches with local ingredients plus they make composting part of their daily routine! Pick up a few Maine Sea Salt Bagels and some of their own whipped cream cheese, then saunter down to Willard Beach to watch a beautiful sunrise over the water.
Looking out over Willard Beach
Indulge on sustainably sourced local oysters and a delicious browned lobster roll at Eventide Oyster Co.
Sit at the bar next to the huge slab of Maine granite that serves as the oyster bar and know that you have met your match when it comes to the freshest oysters you may ever have in your life. With a wine list featuring some organic and bio-dynamic wines, unique cocktails and a craft beer list featuring Maine brews, trust your server for recommendations.
Eventide Maine Oysters with the Mingionette and Horseradish Ice sides paired with a Spanish Albarino-Delicious!