Commercial Street, Portland
Commercial Street is a vibrant and historically significant street nestled in downtown Portland. With its rich history and scenic waterfront location, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. In 2008, it was honored as one of the ten best streets in the United States by the American Planning Association.
The street's origins can be traced back to the 1850s when it was constructed on reclaimed land, made possible by filling Casco Bay. This expansion was necessary to accommodate the growing demands of the railroad and warehousing industries, both integral to the bustling port's working waterfront. The transformation of old piers into a thriving street allowed for improved access and trade opportunities, fueling the city's economic growth.
One notable landmark situated at the intersection of Commercial Street and Franklin Street is the Maine State Pier. Serving as a deepwater marine facility and an outdoor music venue, it adds an exciting dimension to the street's dynamic atmosphere.
At the eastern end of Commercial Street, visitors can discover the historic Widgery Wharf and Union Wharf. These two structures, completed in the late 18th century, stand as testaments to the city's early maritime heritage.
Today, Commercial Street continues to thrive as a bustling thoroughfare, combining the nostalgic charm of its maritime history with the vibrancy of a modern urban destination. It offers a delightful mix of attractions, culinary delights, and unique shopping experiences. Whether strolling along the street, indulging in fresh seafood, or enjoying the cultural events at the Maine State Pier, Commercial Street captivates visitors with its distinct character and rich heritage.
The street's origins can be traced back to the 1850s when it was constructed on reclaimed land, made possible by filling Casco Bay. This expansion was necessary to accommodate the growing demands of the railroad and warehousing industries, both integral to the bustling port's working waterfront. The transformation of old piers into a thriving street allowed for improved access and trade opportunities, fueling the city's economic growth.
One notable landmark situated at the intersection of Commercial Street and Franklin Street is the Maine State Pier. Serving as a deepwater marine facility and an outdoor music venue, it adds an exciting dimension to the street's dynamic atmosphere.
At the eastern end of Commercial Street, visitors can discover the historic Widgery Wharf and Union Wharf. These two structures, completed in the late 18th century, stand as testaments to the city's early maritime heritage.
Today, Commercial Street continues to thrive as a bustling thoroughfare, combining the nostalgic charm of its maritime history with the vibrancy of a modern urban destination. It offers a delightful mix of attractions, culinary delights, and unique shopping experiences. Whether strolling along the street, indulging in fresh seafood, or enjoying the cultural events at the Maine State Pier, Commercial Street captivates visitors with its distinct character and rich heritage.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Portland. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Commercial Street on Map
Sight Name: Commercial Street
Sight Location: Portland, USA (See walking tours in Portland)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Portland, USA (See walking tours in Portland)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Portland, Maine
Create Your Own Walk in Portland
Creating your own self-guided walk in Portland is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Buildings Walking Tour
There is no doubt that Mainers have made a great mark in the history of the United States, and the seaside city of Portland is no exception. The local architectural heritage encapsulates several centuries, reflecting various periods of American history 鈥� from the early colonial settlers' homes to the industrious Victorians and their ornate dwellings, all the way through to the modern day... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Portland Maine Introduction Walking Tour
If New York is the city that never sleeps, then Portland, Maine is the city that always dreams. Its magic is in its quiet, gentle allure. Located on the southern edge of Casco Bay, along the U.S. Atlantic coastline, Portland is known, among other things, for its picturesque natural setting.
Albeit the largest and most populous city in the State of Maine, there is a certain... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Albeit the largest and most populous city in the State of Maine, there is a certain... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles