10 Amazing Things To Do And See In Deering Center Portland

Over on the quieter side of Portland, Maine lies Deering Center, a charming neighborhood with plenty of lush, green spaces. Don’t be fooled by the residential vibe of this neighborhood, Deering Center residents are a loyal and proud bunch who have made the neighborhood a blast for tourists from all over the world. Check out the 10 best here.

The Honey Exchange

If you’re a fan of honey and have always wanted to know how it’s made, stop by The Honey Exchange on Stevens Avenue. With a glass-fronted observation hive and an extensive collection of all things bee-related, there’s no place quite like The Honey Exchange. The storekeepers double as the beekeepers, and then triple as connoisseurs of honey-infused treats like soaps, sodas, beeswax, and more. You can also get a hands-on live demonstration of beekeeping, and if you happen to be an aspiring beekeeper you can even get the tools you need to raise your own hive of honeybees.
Address and telephone number: 494 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME 04101 +1 (207) 773-9333

Baxter Woods

Portland is Maine’s chameleon, changing from city life to natural oasis in the blink of an eye. Baxter Woods is a prime example of the lush and beautiful land that stretches across this region. Trimming the edge of Deering Center, Baxter Woods is a thirty-two acre expanse of pastoral forestry that boasts long, shaded trails to keep you cool in the summer and spectacular views of the nearby river. You can access this peaceful, calm and quiet parcel of land from Stevens Avenue, Congress Street and Forest Avenue.

Address and telephone number: 389 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101 +1 (207) 874-8801

Deering Oaks Park

Deering Oaks Park is a charming park that is highly popular amongst locals and tourists alike. As one of the top-rated and cleanest parks in Maine, Deering Oaks has gained multiple accolades for its beautiful bridges, quiet ponds, plentiful farmers’ markets, occasional parades and outdoor concerts, splash pools, and ice skating (in the winter, of course). For families wanting a simple yet unforgettable daytime outing or couples craving some evening romance, Deering Oaks is one of the most unique places in all of Maine.

Address and telephone number: Portland, ME 04101

Southworth Planetarium

University

The Southworth Plantetarium has been managed by the University of Southern Maine for over forty years, and continues to be a favorite destination for kids and adults alike. Every single day the planetarium offers visitors two showings of educational and interesting short films about a diverse array of topics from dinosaurs and constellations to rockets and natural selection. There are also professional speakers who occasionally visit to give presentations and demonstrations, so buy your tickets in advance while you can!

Nova G

Hotel

Grab your wallet and get ready to do some not-so-serious damage. Take thrift shopping to the next level by stopping by Nova G, a hole-in-the-wall used clothing store that offers full ensembles to suit every occasion. Specializing in ‘gently-used’ designer fashions, Nova G is an elevated thrift store bringing the concept of high-end consignment to the average retailer. You can find everything from business skirts to pea coats, motorcycle jackets to cocktail dresses at Nova G – all for incredibly affordable prices. Regency Hotel, Portland, Maine | © Austen Squarepants/Flickr

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking to unwind after a long and tiring day of traveling through Deering Center, check out the Portland Regency Hotel & Spa. You need only glance at the website to see the spa’s ample offerings to be convinced you should make an appointment! Choose from signature treatments like European organic facials and therapeutic deep tissue massages, relax in Jacuzzis or unravel in Vichy showers. You can even opt for a tailored spa package so you don’t have to keep up with treatments, and stay serene and relaxed during your stay.

Address and telephone number: 20 Milk St, Portland, ME 04101 +1 (800) 727-3436

Ernie's Pool and Darts

Bar

Ernie’s Pool and Darts is a local staple that offers exactly what it says in its name: nothing but pool and darts. With a jukebox, eight pool tables, and dozens of dart boards peppered across this bar and eatery, Ernie’s Pool and Darts has become the preferred gathering spot for Deering Center’s young adults. The bartenders whip up drinks as fast as you order them, and the décor manages to balance retro and vintage without being over-the-top. Presumpscot River, Covered Bridge | © InAweofGod’sCreation/Flickr

Presumpscot River Preserve Trail

Park

The Presumpscot River Preserve Trail runs alongside the eponymous Presumpscot River for five miles, offering bike riders and joggers a wonderful alternative to the trails of Baxter Woods. If you don’t want to wait in lines to get inside Maine’s state parks but still want a taste of its breathtaking natural beauty, you can hike the one-way trails of Presumpscot River. It may not be the easiest place to access, but once you do, you definitely won’t regret it.

Memorial Stadium

Memorial, School, Stadium

Portland’s Memorial Stadium is a source of pride for Deering Center natives, a gem of a sports arena that can seat over three thousand fans and visitors. It is the property of the Deering High School sports teams, but it is often rented out by local team Portland Phoenix for soccer games and is affiliated with the United Soccer Leagues of the United States, Canada and Bermuda. If you want to experience a sample of Deering Center’s spirit, check out one of the games here and you’ll be swept up in the fervor before you know it. Good Eats, Deering Center | © empiredude1/Flickr

Good Eats Boutique

Though the location on Stevens Avenue was closed some time ago, Good Eats Boutique got a second chance when it moved across town to Dole Drive, much to the relief of the locals! Good eats is a beloved, small-town bakery that epitomizes what it means to be a part of Deering Center, offering an unpretentious selection of pastries of the highest quality and caliber. At Good Eats, Portland’s finest pastry chefs concoct and create cakes, pies and pastries that you can’t find anywhere else in the country.

Address and telephone number: 60 Dole Dr., Portland, ME 04103 +1 (207) 773-1000