Places
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There are countless words to describe place—abode, habitat, land, setting, or interiors. Spaces, whether indoors or outdoors, speak just as loudly as the people who inhabit them. From Airbnbs and boutique hotels to sacred sites and healing circles, capturing the essence of a space where your work unfolds can be dynamic or peaceful, depending on your intention.
Portland Neighborhoods
For Benchmark Real Estate: Copy
Back Cove
In 2024, I wrote 26 neighborhood profiles for Portland, ME, for Benchmark Real Estate. These profiles accompany house listings, highlighting the unique character of each area based on its location within the city.
Back Cove
Welcome to Back Cove, one of Portland’s most serene and scenic neighborhoods just minutes from the bustling downtown. This charming, primarily residential neighborhood offers stunning views of the Portland skyline and easy access to the vibrant and growing businesses of Woodford’s Corner. Back Cove is also a tidal estuary basin, meaning the ocean views along Baxter Boulevard are always changing with the light of day, making your daily commute by bike or vehicle a delight all year long.
Back Cove borders several popular neighborhoods, giving it a central feel with a laid-back vibe, along with top-rated schools like Cheverus High School and Ocean Avenue Elementary. Outdoor enthusiasts and families alike will love morning jogs and walks along the historic 3.6-mile Back Cove Trail, which connects to multiple parks, including the expansive 48-acre Payson Park. Payson offers everything from tennis and pickleball courts to an ice skating rink, a community garden, the Longfellow Arboretum, and a brand new playground for all ages.
Looking for a neighborhood that blends city convenience with peaceful surroundings? Back Cove is the perfect place to call home.
Top 5
Payson Park – If Baxter Blvd is the main scenic arterial of Back Cove, Payson Park is the beating heart of this neighborhood. From tennis and pickleball courts, to a playground for all ages, and a sledding course in the winter, Payson Park will be your go-to meeting spot to spend time with friends, or take meditative strolls solo.
Back Cove Trail – a 3.6-mile loop and one of Portland's oldest and most popular trails, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Ideal for walking, running, biking (both road and mountain), and dog walking, it features benches and seasonal water fountains. The trail is mostly flat, with a slight incline along the I-295 stretch, and connects to the Bayside and Eastern Promenade Trail under Tukey's Bridge. Along the way, plaques highlight historic views and locations. From May to October, the adjacent Baxter Boulevard goes car-free, giving you extra space to walk, bike, or even try rollerblading with friends and family.
Arboretum – Located in Payson Park, the Longfellow Arboretum in Portland, Maine, features a diverse collection of 116 trees and various shrubs, showcasing both native and exotic species. Free and open daily, the arboretum aims to educate the public about plant varieties while offering beautiful views near a small tidal marsh.
Neighborhood Stroll – From Deerfield to Pya the quiet tree-lined roads that flank the shores of Back Cove make for a wonderful walk in any season. Be sure to visit Coyle Park. This historic section of Back Cove is considered the most picturesque in Portland.
Heseltine Park (& Sammy’s Scoops) – Indulge in some of the best ice cream in town while you play at Heseltine Park, which is a great playground for younger toddlers and young kids.