AboutSue Murphy Expertise Exploring Maine is my passion. Areas of special interest include most topics. Here are a few; natural history, ecology, outdoor activities, art, cultural heritage, travel, local people, traditions, events, food, craftsmen, tourism, Maine history,and folklore are to name a few. My experience in the Camden area is limited, and I have not climbed Mt. Katahdin, but I have spent time in Baxter State Park.
Experience I am a 'Native' of Maine, born and bred in the southern part of the state. I also lived in Aroostook County, simply known to Mainers as 'The County'. My family has traveled throughout the state for many years, exploring a variety of interests; from camping, hiking, and skiing, to blueberry pickin', attending County Fairs and Festivals, and exploring our beautiful islands. We have raised our three sons here, and continue to make new discoveries as the years and seasons continue to unfold.
Organizations My community service includes:
Annual Community Fundraiser; Beach Olympics, to benefit Special Olympics. now in its 25th year, Initiated and developed a community Art Group,
Sponsored and mentored development programs for women and at-risk youth through workshops.
Docent at Rachel Carson Wildlife Preserve
Introduced and led ‘Nature’ workshops in the public school system.
Education/Credentials Education Chinese Taoist XunDao Medical QiGong People’s Republic of China Diploma
Wild Rose School of Natural Healing Arts Vancouver, B.C. Independent Studies Certificate Program
Portland School of Art Portland, Maine Independent Studies
Maine College of Art Portland, Maine
Question Hi Sue;
My wife and I will be in the Portland area for a weekend get away on Oct. 23rd. I am wondering if it will be to late in the season to take in the sites and shops. Also we like to eat good meals but not to fancy do you have any suggestions. Thank you.
Tony
Answer Hello Tony,
There is always something going on in Portland, but I am not sure what your interests are.
Naturally, the summer places have closed or will have closed by Columbus Day weekend, but there is always a way to experience the essence of Maine if you are adventurous and have an open mind.
Make sure you bring warm clothes, gloves and a hat for those cool nights or brisk walks on the beach. You can start by looking through the Portland newspaper to scan the events and arts calendar, as well as to locate other venues that may be of interest. http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/
Of course there is always the trip to Portland Head Light. While it may sound too 'touristy', believe me when I say it is just a gorgeous place, for locals and tourists alike. http://portlandheadlight.com/ Two Lights State Park is also a beautiful place, with the crashing surf, but I prefer the Headlight.
As for places to dine, well it depends on what you are looking for. If you want a real Maine
dining experience like rubbing elbows with the fishermen, then go to Becky's Diner on the waterfront for local flavor and color. Try their chowder for lunch, it's excellent. http://beckysdiner.com/. Or, if you want a view and lobster, you might want to head to DiMillo's floating restaurant. http://www.dimillos.com/restaurant/index.html
There are a ton of new 'fusion' restaurants in town, but you can get that in any city.
Here are a few more links for finding places to eat in Portland. http://www.foodinportland.com/
You might also consider taking a ferry ride out to Peaks Island for a sunset cruise at Casco Bay Lines, or checking on the performance schedule for the Merrill Auditorium.
The Portland waterfront will give you a taste o' Maine, especially if you go to
Harbor Fish Mkt. to view all of the fresh seafood being fileted, etc. Walk the docks at Casco Bay Lines, gawk at the cruise ships if any are in town, or have Pizza on the dock at Flatbreads, if you like a pub-like atmosphere on the water. www.flatbreadcompany.com
And for real Maine food, head to the Miss Portland Diner and eat in the original diner car instead of the new add on. http://www.missportlanddiner.com/
