If the Old Port Exchange District of Portland didn’t exist you’d want someone to invent it. Stroll along cobblestone streets with gas light fixtures, past classic Victorian style brick buildings, and you’ll think you’ve returned to an enchanted by-gone era. Today this classic architectural motif and stylish old-world surroundings provide the Old Port with its signature character and make it one of Portland most popular vacation attractions.
The Old Port spans about six blocks of undeniable charm and vitality. You’ll find a delightful eclectic selection of fashionable boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, jewelry stores and trendy restaurants. It’s a place that invites you to look for one-of-kind art pieces, stylish outfits, hard to find culinary items and mementoes of Maine.
Your dining experience in the Old Port range from traditional lobster dinners overlooking the harbor, to exotic delicacies presented with flair and style, to a chili dog from a street vendor with entertainment provided by an outdoor musical group.
Adding to the zest of the Old Port is the city’s working waterfront harbor centered on Commercial Street. At first blush the hubbub that goes on in the harbor may seem too chaotic. But there seems to be an invisible choreographer that keeps pedestrians and commercial traffic flowing with a poetic elegance.
The tapestry of activity you find here includes fish markets, ferry services, fashionable condos, rustic eateries and docks where whale watching and cruise boats take you out to “see.”
Over the years the Old Port has gone through a number of dynamic transitions.
During the 19th century the Old Port was at the heart of the booming commercial waterfront. In 1866 one of the four fires that devastated the city destroyed 1,800 buildings and left almost 10,000 people homeless. The city rose from the ashes with a new determination and reestablished the Old Port as vital part of its waterfront expansion.
As the highs and lows of business cycles evolved the Old Port went through periods of decline. In the 1970s artists and crafters in search of low rents moved into abandoned lofts, vacant chandleries and warehouses and converted them into profitable studios and workshops. They were followed by visionaries and entrepreneurs who opened shops and restaurants and revitalized the Old Port to its former prominence.
Today the Old Port is one of Portland’s most visited destinations. Each summer the Old Port Festival attracts thousands of visitors for a lively parade, entertainment, food and great family fun.