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Portland is still poised to become one of the premier destinations on the East Coast.
Given its location in the corner of the northeast, it still seems like a distant land to those who look out over this beautiful city filled with red-brick rows of shops and eateries in the tranquility of the coast.
Although Maine is known for its tranquility, if there’s a bustling city here, it would definitely be Portland, especially its busy, walkable downtown streets.
Maine’s most popular city is just an hour across the New Hampshire-Maine border, which means there’s so much untapped potential to discover in this underrated state.
One such city is righteous 30 minutes away and quintessential New England with craft beer, fresh seafood and authentic charm that are sure to captivate you.
Brunswick is a pleasure to visit, especially given the direct access to the region’s amazing nature, including beautiful islands and blissful beaches.
Cheers to this foodie heaven!
If you’ve been to college, you know what the typical scene looks like, but Brunswick is not your average college town with busy tailgates and wild spring breaks.
Located on the scenic Androscoggin River, this relaxing town is home to historic Bowdoin College, which dates back to the 1700s.
No promises if the dorms get loud, but Brunswick has all the positives of a college town without the chaos.
First and foremost: beer!
The craft beer scene is booming; also the perfect pairing for the region’s decadent seafood.
While wine tends to get all the hype in the fall, many breweries offer seasonal brews like pumpkin beers and hard ciders.
One of the best places to have a pint is across the river Sea Dog Brewery in neighboring Topsham, where their ‘Blueberry’ fame will make you forget everyone else’s pumpkin concoctions.
You have to ask yourself if you’ve really visited Maine without sampling the flavor of the world’s most famous crustacean.
Lobsters are a way of life in this state, going well beyond Portland’s trendy food trucks with Brunswick’s own unsuspecting dives like Cameron’s Lobster House serving lobster salads and lobster rolls.
Although I visited this area years ago and it is my personal favorite (along with many others). Red eats in the nearby town of Wiscasset.
Foodie Tip: Don’t skip this Maine’s Potato Donuts or!
Small town charm and beautiful scenery
A visit to downtown Brunswick is a must. Perusing all the delights of Maine Street (yes, clever with an “e”) will keep you busy for hours visiting bookstores, cafes, boutiques and more.
Brunswick’s charm goes beyond its New England architecture and quiet brick streets. There is more to do here than you might expect.
One of those unique attractions is following the Maine Art Museum Art Trail, which passes through Brunswick’s Boudoin College (and it’s free!).
There is also a range of historic houses to visit, as Brunswick has close ties to the Civil War. Visit what locals often call a ‘time capsule’ Skolfield-Whittier House ($15 to enter).
While there are plenty of fall events to enjoy, one of the most hyped festivities is the city’s Winter market reopening on November 11.
But before winter sets in, fall is the perfect time to explore Brunswick’s beautiful nature, whether it’s strolling the pristine beaches or strolling to nearby Maquoit Bay for epic photos of the fall leaves.
Beautiful islands within easy reach
The only downside to visiting the many islands at this time is that puffin season is over, so mark your calendars for next summer!
Maine’s Midcoast is home to truly incredible islands, where fall is the last season of the year to make the trip worthy.
Ferries are still in operation, taking those in the know to some of the state’s best-kept secrets.
You’ll have to departure from Portland to visit some of the best islands outside Brunswick such as:
- Peaks Islands
- Cheabeague Island
- Long Island
The good news is that you can also drive to some islands, such as Orr’s Island and Bailey Island, home to cozy seaside cottages and virtually crowd-free in the fall.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
