Thompson's Point — Venue Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Big picture: What’s the vibe of the place, what’s it like? Nature meets culture at this open-air entertainment venue on the Fore River surrounded by three acres of picnic-ready lawn. The space, with its industrial-cool restored railroad shed, partners each summer with the State Theatre of Portland to host big-name concerts. The rest of the year it brings in festivals: In summer, its “Maker’s Market” events are a Valhalla for those locavores who yearn to shop for all things artisanal with an onsite bar within easy reach. In winter, there's a well-tended skating rink that’s part family recreational center, part all-day, grown-up party. Whatever time of year or activity you come for, don’t neglect the epicurean attractions on the periphery, either: Thompson’s Point has a long track record of finding and luring the most incredible food trucks in Southern Maine (which in Portland is saying a lot). There are also brick-and-mortar destinations like Bissell Brothers Brewery and Stroudwater Distillery—both with excellent haute pub grub—just steps away. What kinds of events can we see here? In the summertime, everyone from Bob Dylan to Modest Mouse and The Lumineers. In the fall and spring, it’s festivals galore. And in deep winter, expect skating whenever weather allows. How are the seats? Almost all shows are general admission and stretch across the lawn, with some offering special sections and V.I.P. areas. The area from the front of the tent to the stage is standing room only, but on the lawn behind it, you can bring low-sitting lawn chairs to most shows. Good for kids? Kids are a natural part of ice skating days at Thompson’s Point, even on festival days; ditto for many of the musical artists that play here. In case they get bored, there’s a Children’s Museum just next door. Anything in particular that makes this place special, from the programming to a unique feature it has? There are two big superpowers here: The first is the ever-evolving mix of physical, artisanal, and musical rollouts. The second—and arguably most compelling—is the sunsets. Regardless of what time of year you come, they’re some of the most beautiful imaginable—streaked across the sky and the water. If we’re going to be in town, what—and who—do you think this is best for? The true ninja move of Thompson’s Point is that it’s become so many different things to so many different folks. Those who need assigned seats to have a good time, however, should look elsewhere for a show." - Alexandra Hall