FEATURES

Portland, Maine, has transcended the DIY/Etsy aesthetic to become a hub for high quality, crafted accessories, clothing, leather goods and more. It is locals who are driving this artisan movement in neighbourhoods like the Old Port district, in the heart of the city, where streets lined with 19th century brick buildings house stores, restaurants and bars. While the waterfront strip and the thoroughfares off the Old Port district are packed with pedestrians, Middle Street and a few streets around it see less foot traffic and are shopping gems. Yes, there are some chain stores here, but the locally owned boutiques, selling handmade wares from Maine, are the standouts.