Cumberland County, Maine is located in the southernmost part of the state, on the Atlantic Ocean. It is bordered by York County to the west and Sagadahoc County to the east. Cumberland County has a population of approximately 283,000 people according to 2018 estimates.
According to definitionexplorer.com, the county was established in 1760 and named after William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. Throughout its history, Cumberland County has been home to Native American tribes like the Abenaki and Penobscot peoples as well as European settlers. Today, it is one of Maine’s most populous counties and is home to a diverse mix of cultures.
Cumberland County has plenty of attractions that make it a great destination for visitors. The county seat of Portland is a bustling city with plenty of shops, restaurants, museums and other attractions. Just outside Portland lies Freeport – home to LL Bean’s flagship store as well as numerous outlet stores where visitors can find great deals on clothing and outdoor gear. Other popular destinations include Scarborough Beach State Park – which offers stunning views of Casco Bay – and Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park – an ideal spot for hiking, camping or simply enjoying nature.
Famous people from Cumberland County include authors Stephen King and Carolyn Chute; singer-songwriters Ray LaMontagne and Melissa Etheridge; actors Jodi Benson (The Little Mermaid) and Matthew Perry (Friends); basketball player Marcus Smart; UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma; UConn men’s basketball coach Jim Calhoun; NFL players Tedy Bruschi (Patriots) and Mike Michalske (Packers); NASCAR driver Ricky Craven; Olympic figure skater Nancy Kerrigan; journalist Anderson Cooper; musician Chris Thile (Punch Brothers); former US Senator Olympia Snowe; former US President George H W Bush; musicians Phish’s Trey Anastasio and Chris Harford (Band Of Horses).
No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Cumberland County. From exploring its natural beauty to discovering its rich culture – you won’t want to miss out on all this region has to offer.
Climate and weather in Cumberland County, Maine
According to liuxers.com, the climate in Cumberland County, Maine is generally classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Summers tend to be hot and humid with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s, while winters are cold and snowy with temperatures ranging from the upper teens to the low 30s. Spring and fall are milder but still unpredictable; temperatures can range from below freezing to the mid-60s.
Rainfall in Cumberland County is abundant throughout the year, averaging around 40 inches annually. The most precipitation tends to occur in late spring and early summer, while winter months are often snowier than other months. Snowfall averages around 60 inches per year, with more snow in northern areas of the county than southern areas.
Maine’s coastal location makes it vulnerable to storms and severe weather such as Nor’easters, blizzards, thunderstorms, and hurricanes. While these storms can cause property damage or power outages, they also bring much needed rain and snow that help replenish water supplies for local wildlife and vegetation.
Cumberland County enjoys a pleasant climate with mild summers and cold winters that make it a great place for outdoor activities all year round. In summer months you can enjoy hiking or biking in nearby state parks or exploring Portland’s many attractions; while winter months offer plenty of opportunities for skiing or snowshoeing. No matter what time of year you visit Cumberland County you’re sure to find something fun to do.
Transportation in Cumberland County, Maine
Cumberland County, Maine is served by a variety of transportation options. The area is easily accessible by car via Interstates 95 and 295, which run north-south and east-west respectively. In addition, there are several state highways that traverse the county, including Routes 9, 26, and 302. Public transportation is also available in the form of Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses that run daily to Boston and other major cities in the region.
For those looking for alternative forms of transportation, Cumberland County has plenty to offer including bike lanes throughout most of the county and a growing network of trails for hikers and cyclists alike. There are also several ferry services that run between Portland and other coastal towns in Maine as well as Nova Scotia in Canada.
The Portland International Jetport offers daily flights to major cities throughout the US as well as international destinations such as London, Paris, Rome, Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Mexico City and more. Additionally, there is a bus service from Portland to Bangor International Airport which provides additional air travel options for those looking to fly further afield.
No matter how you choose to get around Cumberland County you’ll find plenty of options available. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip or an extended stay – there’s something here for everyone.
Cities and towns in Cumberland County, Maine
Cumberland County, Maine is home to a variety of cities and towns, each with their own unique flavor and charm. See popular cities in Maine. Portland, the county seat, is the largest city in the state and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theaters. The city also boasts a bustling waterfront area with shops and restaurants lining its streets. Nearby South Portland is known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife along with its historic downtown area.
Other cities in Cumberland County include Scarborough, Falmouth, Windham, Gorham and Westbrook. Scarborough is home to several parks as well as two of the state’s most popular beaches – Pine Point Beach and Old Orchard Beach – making it a great destination for outdoor activities. Falmouth is known for its quaint downtown area as well as miles of hiking trails throughout the town’s woodlands. Windham is home to some of Maine’s top golf courses while Gorham offers plenty of opportunities for shopping in its historic downtown district. Westbrook is located on the Presumpscot River and has a vibrant cultural scene featuring art galleries, music venues, theaters and more.
Cumberland County also includes several smaller towns such as Yarmouth, Freeport and Standish that offer their own unique attractions – from apple orchards to breweries to lakeside retreats – making them perfect places to explore during your visit. No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for there’s something here in Cumberland County that will be sure to please.