The List - Portland, ME

CHAD EHLERS/PHOTOLIBRARY

1 PORTLAND HEAD LIGHTHOUSE
Likely the inspiration for poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "The Lighthouse," this landmark is one of the area's most stunning sights. Located just outside Portland in Cape Elizabeth, the tower - which was completed in 1791 - is no longer open to the public, but the on-site museum (open through October) displays relics like old lighthouse lenses. www.portlandheadlight.com

2 Middle Street
On the Eastern Waterfront, pick up crispy french fries and a milkshake at Duckfat (www.duckfat.com), first-edition food and farming books at Rabelais (www.rabelaisbooks.com), and nut-free chocolates at Dean's Sweets (www.deanssweets.com). For dinner, call ahead for a six-course tasting menu at Hugo's Restaurant (www.hugos.net).

3 SPACE Gallery
Look for the artistic window installation to find the entrance to this Congress Street nonprofit arts venue, which hosts a typography-themed art show, ongoing film series and lots of local music. www.space538.org

4 PICNIC
Hipster crafters and musicians host an outdoor fair on Sept. 12 with handmade goods and live music from up-and-coming artists. www.picnicportland.wordpress.com

5 Children's Museum and Theater of Maine
Housing one of a dozen camera obscuras nationwide, the museum offers upside-down views of the city, in addition to an outdoor shipyard and pirate-themed theater workshops. www.kitetails.com

6 Peak's Island
Take a quick ferry ride to this island off Portland's coast, home to a 4-mile paved trail that loops the entire island. Stops include a picnic-perfect rocky shoreline, an abandoned World War II bunker and quirky shops, including one at the world's only umbrella cover museum. Bike and kayak rentals are available. www.peaksisland.com

7 Neal Dow House
Although present-day Portland is home to renowned beer maker Allagash, 19th-century residents and then-Mayor Neal Dow spearheaded a ban on booze. Go on a free weekday tour of the Prohibitionist's historic home, then grab a pint of Allagash White at Local 188 (www.local188.com). 207-773-7773

8 J's Oyster Bar
This bustling wharf hangout serves raw oysters and chowders on the waterfront. Expect no-frills service, buckets of native steamer clams and ice-cold draft beers. 207-772-4828

9 Kotzschmar Organ
When this organ was installed in Portland City Hall in 1912, it was one of the world's largest. Municipal organist Ray Cornils still cranks out concerts and film scores on its giant pipes. www.foko.org

10 L.L. Bean Flagship Store
A visit to Maine isn't complete without shopping at the famed retailer. Located 20 miles away in Freeport, the company's first and largest store is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. www.llbean.com