The Best City In America Is Actually Right Here In Maine

Ask anyone from anywhere in America what they think of Maine and “urban life” probably isn’t the first thing you’ll hear. Maine is well known for its stunning wilderness, its rivers and lakes, its craggy Atlantic coastline and its postcard-perfect small towns, but cities? With apologies to Bangor and Lewiston, many people would contend we have only one “real” city — but it just so happens that said city is getting more and more national attention for its amazing amenities and quality of life.

With a population of less than 70,000, almost every state has at least one city bigger than Portland. But visitors are shocked by the big-city punch that such a small, manageable city can pack.

Filipe Fortes / Flickr

Portland just keeps landing near the top of national lists of the best cities. The historical beauty and European feel probably has a lot to do with that.

Phillip Capper / Flickr

And there are very few cities that can combine the dense urbanity that Portland offers in its center with natural beauty such as the kind you can witness from Portland Head Light.

Jeff Gunn / Flickr

Of all the praise Portland has received in recent years, none is so strong as the accolades for its food. Of course, Mainers know that’s nothing new, as it’s always been easy to find America’s best lobster here.

Rich Brooks / Flickr

But while there’s nothing wrong with the classics, anyone who thinks Portland’s food scene is stuck in its ways is in for a big surprise. Restaurants such as Duckfat are among the nation’s most innovative.

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Don’t forget dessert! How can you possibly resist these delicious and beautiful donuts, made with potato flour — there’s Portland’s culinary innovation again — from The Holy Donut?

Joy / Flickr

In 2016, Matador Network ranked Portland the No. 1 city in the world for craft beer. Yes, you heard that right — in the entire world. You don’t reach the top without a team effort, but Allagash Brewery is a huge reason why.

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After all that great food and beer, how does Portland consistently rank high on lists of the healthiest cities? Simple: Portlanders love to get up and moving, whether it’s hiking in the nearby woods or cycling through the city for, uh, more beer.

Allagash Brewing / Flickr

A city can’t be the best unless it’s inclusive, and Portland is a place where all are welcome. That’s why Advocate.com named it the No. 8 gayest city in America.

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With classic architecture, a dense urban landscape, award-winning food and beer and an live-and-let-live attitude, it’s no wonder that Portland has become a major destination for tourism, including huge cruise ships.

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Portland isn’t the only urban treasure that Maine has to offer. Take a look at the city that Matador called one of the coolest cities in America.