215. Portland, Maine - Fog, lobster shacks, and maritime charm

Join us on Travel Is Back episode 215 as we wander through fog-swept Portland, Maine, where maritime charm meets world-class seafood. We share neighborhood strolls, casual lobster shacks, and landmark lighthouse views, plus practical travel tips for first-timers. Highlights include Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, the cobbled Old Port waterfront, iconic lobster shacks on Commercial Street and along the shore, Casco Bay ferries to nearby islands, and the Eastern Promenade for sunset views. Food lovers will find must-try lobster rolls, creamy New England clam chowder, and local craft breweries like Allagash; we also recommend Duckfat for fries and tasting rooms for afternoon hops. Travel tips cover the best seasons to visit (late spring to early fall for warmer weather and summer festivals), parking and walkability in Old Port, ferry schedules, and how to time a lighthouse visit for golden-hour photos. This episode was prepared with the assistance of AI tools, giving us more time to travel and bring you even more destinations. Tune in for a welcoming guide to Portland’s flavors, sights, and small-town sea air. Travel Is Back -- over 200 episodes covering destinations across America and beyond.Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.