The West Bayside area of Portland was once a “Blue Collar Neighborhood” with many immigrants calling this area home.  The area was a stable place for business with industry, warehouses, scrap yards and manufacturing.  Families living in this area went back for generations.  Corner stores and markets made it easy for the residence to shop, work and live in the same neighborhood.  The area then went through a time where it wasn’t a desirable place to live or do business.  Other area’s of the city were being developed and the West Bayside area was put on hold for development by the city.  Many business left the area, moving into new and updated spaces leaving empty buildings, lots and vacant homes. 

The West Bayside area of today is thriving with new development, new and established businesses, housing and entertainment.  The neighborhood houses approximately 5,400 people. The area has a wonderful mix of families as well as singles of all ages and ethnicities with long time residency and new Mainers from around the world calling this home.  The West Bayside area has some of the cities best hot spots like; The Yard and Batson River Brewing & Distilling, both located on Hanover Street.  Wilson County Barbecue and Coal’s pizza are right up there on the hot spot list.  The Salt Box Cafe Food Truck can often be found parked on the streets of the Bayside neighborhood along side other food trucks. Two Fat Cats Bakery…. need I say more… amazing!  They recently moved to a more spacious location on Lancaster Street.

There’s lots to do in the neighborhood.  The Back Cove Trail is a 3 1/2 mile trail that goes around Back Cove which is about a mile in diameter.  The views from any spot on this trail are just breath taking.  You’ll see many walkers, runners, bikers and bird watchers on your journey.  The trail is almost all flat and great for the whole family to enjoy.  You can take a self guided “Foodie” tour and eat and drink your way through the neighborhood.  West Bayside is home to The Portland Symphony Orchestra and The Portland Stage Company.  Both have been entertaining us for years.  You can do some bowling at Bayside Bowl which is an upbeat, “hip” bowling alley that has a great food and drink menu with inside and outside dining. 

This area is incredibly central to everything “Portland”.  Many of the folks living in this area also work within walking distance.  Maybe it’s time for you to pull your sneakers out of the closet, park your car and call West Bayside, Portland, Maine home.

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