Portland, CT
This quiet Yankee village, somewhat removed from the rest of the world by a sharp curve in the Connecticut River, is an excellent place to live. Rooted by its small town heritage, Portland maintains its nineteenth century appeal, while offering quality, up-to-date services.
Portland offers more than the nostalgic charm of a New England village. It offers the convenience of Central Connecticut, midway between Boston and New York. A short ride gives you access to shopping malls, cultural programs sponsored by top-grade universities, airports, a variety of restaurant cuisine, beaches, ski-slopes, sports arenas, the capital city of Hartford. If theater is what you enjoy, we are not far from Hartford Stage, Bushnell, Hartford Civic Center, Shubert, Goodspeed and Oakdale.
Along The Trail
Brownstone Quarries National Historic Site
Brownstone Avenue
BrownstoneQuorum.org
Since 1690, Portland brownstone has been used to construct public buildings, homes, and bridges and the term “brownstone” has become synonymous
with a city dwelling.
Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park
161 Brownstone Avenue
BrownstonePark.com
Seasonal water/adventure park that includes swimming, zip lining, cliff jumping, rock climbing, kayaking, paddle
boarding, and food within the walls of the main quarry.
Quarry View
311 Brownstone Avenue
BrownstoneQuarryView.com
Immerse yourself in Portland’s history with guided tours and the chance to see and feel the stone, learn about the quarries history, and enjoy the beautiful views from high atop the rim of Portland’s historic Brownstone Quarry.
Portland Riverfront Park
Portland.recdesk.com
Breathtaking view of the Connecticut River, pavilion, picnic tables, band shell, gazebo, labyrinth, and walking path. Home to Portland’s “Music on the River” Summer Concert Series.
Gotta’s Farm & Cider Mill
661 Glastonbury Turnpike
GottasFarm.com
Established in 1898 and one of CT’s “Century Farms”. Farm fresh produce, plants, the cider mill, freshly baked pies, breads, and cookies. Gotta’s offers pick your own strawberries, peaches, apples, and pears when they are in season.
Meshomasic State Forest
Meshomasic State Forest, Connecticut’s first state forest, established in 1903 and now more than 8,000 acres. Signage marks the gravel roads but there is no trail signage, so bring a map and follow it closely. Roadside parking is available at trail/road intersections. The main 3.5 mile trail begins at Reservoir Road and provides a connection for other trails.