Do you have any recommendations?
“We’re really looking forward to the tour, but can you recommend…”. This a phrase we get everyday, no matter the season. The good news is, we’ve got you covered!
We understand that vacation time is precious, and most people are looking for the most bang-for-the-buck experiences. The most basic rules of economics reign supreme: it’s the law of supply and demand. Time is limited, and the want to have an exciting, fulfilling, and memorable experience is top priority.
Fortunately, all of our hard work building The Maine Brew Bus into what it is today has paid off. Guests have been more than generous in sharing the numerous happy thoughts and reviews of their experience on our tours. We are incredibly proud that we’ve created something special to offer to the thousands of guests who take our tours each year, providing a unique look into what makes Maine so special (at least in our opinion). The truth is, there is so much more to experience that sets Maine apart from the rest.
While our primary goal is to spotlight the numerous and unique craft alcohol products and producers Maine has become iconic for, there is plenty of fun to be had in-between pints. It all started with creating a list (like this one) of the many secret spots and experiences that were not yet ranked among the top results in TripAdvisor and Yelp, but we believed were worth spreading the word about.
Slowly but surely, as our popularity increased and we became a top-rated activity, people started seeking our advice on what experiences/dishes/drinks/sights were not to be missed. We happily shared, and word spread of our willingness to provide the inside scoop.
But this was a clear sign that we had a responsibility to our guests; we were often used as an informal resource in terms of providing recommendations for where to eat, drink, stay, and more. In a town full of fine food and drink, unique sights and experiences, there is not a “one-size-fits-pleases-all” answer.
So, when people ask, “what else should I do?” we still prefer to chat and figure out what their individual interests are, but we have also curated a network of partnerships with businesses that share the same vision we do. So, now that you have your dates picked out and your Maine Brew Bus tour booked, you can benefit from the newly formed partnership we have embarked on with these businesses.
PLEASE NOTE: The full list can be found on the lodging and other partners pages of our website.
Food
Sip of Europe
I’m a firm believer that the world is a better place when accompanied by crepes. Add milkshakes into the mix and you’re set for a sugar high that would give your younger self a run for the money. The combo provides the perfect high-energy fuel source to energize you to paint the town red. Owner Yulia has created a menu of sweet and savory crepes, milkshakes, and a full cafe menu. Inquire about the gluten-free crepe offerings as well, a rare find in Portland. Located right along Congress St in Portland’s Munjoy Hill neighborhood, a quick bite can be had overlooking the historic Eastern Cemetery. Guests of The Maine Brew Bus receive a special discount on their order at Sip of Europe with proof of tour booking. (229 Congress St, Portland | 207-370-7535)
OTTO Pizza
Pizza and beer. Some things don’t need an explanation as to why they are great. When visiting Portland, make sure you take the opportunity to grab at least one slice from one of the city’s most iconic pizza joints. A top-notch array of local craft beers on tap paired with numerous traditional pies and even more off-the-wall pizza offerings. With multiple locations throughout Portland, you are never far away from a slice and a beer – something to keep in mind when looking for an excellent happy hour spot. Mashed potato bacon scallion and pilsner? I’ll take two. Guests of The Maine Brew Bus receive a special offer valid at any OTTO location upon booking. (250 Read St, Portland | 225 Congress St, Portland | 576 Congress St, Portland | 125 John Roberts Rd, South Portland | 159 Cottage Rd, South Portland | 367 Main St, Yarmouth)
Activities/Adventure
The Escape Room
What is an Escape Room you ask? An escape room is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles using clues, hints, and strategy to complete the objectives at hand. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms. Inspired by the wildly popular ‘escape-the-room’-style video games, The Escape Room features a number of themed escapes that are both challenging and accessible to all ages. A perfect way to break up all of the eating and drinking to be done in Portland! Guests of The Maine Brew Bus receive a special discount when booking an escape with The Escape Room. (496 Congress St 2nd Floor, Portland | 207-619-3775)
RIBBIT Adventures
Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat, or the RIB in Ribbit Adventures. Jump aboard the Ribbit One with Captain Randy and Guide Jennifer as they take you on a tour through Casco Bay. The Ribbit One, a unique military-grade rigid-hull inflatable boat combines a fiberglass bottom with inflatable pontoons surrounding the body to provide a light watercraft that glides over the waves. Guests will be whisked around Casco Bay to get up close and personal with the many lighthouses in the bay. If you are looking for a boat tour of the bay but want the excitement of zipping through the waves, Ribbit Adventures has the perfect solution for you. (58 Fore St, Portland | 207-572-6269)
Lodging
Hyatt Place: Portland Old Port
Right in the heart of the Old Port, The Hyatt Place provides the perfect base of operations for the traveler looking to be in the heat of it all at a moment’s notice. With 130 rooms available, there are a number of options for various booking sizes. Guests of the Hyatt Place can even book their Maine Brew Bus tour right at the front desk with one of the hotel’s concierge staff – a fantastic option for when rain complicates plans or those feeling spontaneous! Note the expansive window facade that looks right out onto Fore Street, where you can enjoy one of many local craft beer offerings in the hotel lounge while you enjoy the spectacle on the streets. (433 Fore St, Portland | 207-775-1000)
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Whether traveling for business, seizing the opportunity to travel somewhere that would be considered beyond a reasonable drive, or trying to make the most of a delayed flight, the Embassy Suites offers comfortable lodging accommodations for those who need to be close to the Jetport. With shuttle service that services Portland, making a quick trip into the city to experience the many offerings and events is more feasible than ever. Take the opportunity to enjoy the newly revamped hotel bar as well, where you’ll be able to enjoy a fine Maine craft offering before heading to your next adventure. (1050 Westbrook St, Portland | 207-775-2200)
–Dan Keller