Discover Portland's Woodfords Corner Neighborhood, Conveniently Located Near Stevens Square

Nestled at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Woodford Street, Woodfords Corner offers a captivating blend of Portland’s historic charm and contemporary vibrancy. With its storied past, architectural gems, and thriving community spirit, this neighborhood has evolved into one of Portland's most distinctive areas.

Location: Woodfords Corner and Stevens Square

Woodfords Corner is just a short walk or bike ride from Stevens Square, Portland, Maine's first 55+ active lifestyle community, making it a convenient and accessible destination for residents. Located to the northeast of Stevens Square, Woodfords Corner can be reached by following the scenic Baxter Trail, a beautiful, wooded path that connects the two neighborhoods. Whether you’re strolling through the natural beauty of the Baxter Trail or driving along Forest Avenue, the vibrant shops, restaurants, and community spaces of Woodfords Corner are only minutes away from Stevens Square.  Learn more about the Baxter Trail here.

Historical Charm Meets Modern Living

Woodfords Corner, Then

In the early 19th century, Ebenezer and Mary Woodford helped shape the area by establishing a family comb factory that operated from 1820 to 1849, crafting tortoiseshell and cow horn combs. By 1847, the arrival of the Kennebec and Portland Railroad connected Woodfords to downtown Portland and beyond, sparking growth and development.

Iconic structures like the Woodfords Congregational Church (built in 1871 by renowned architect Francis Fassett) and the Odd Fellows Hall (constructed in 1897 with a recently restored clock tower) anchored the community, giving Woodfords Corner a unique architectural identity.

Woodfords Corner, Now

Today, the area thrives as a bustling urban hub, supported by ongoing revitalization efforts. Groups like the Friends of Woodfords Corner champion sustainable development, ensuring the neighborhood remains both welcoming and walkable. The area is a delightful mix of old and new, with local businesses, unique eateries, and vibrant community gatherings adding to its charm.

Architectural and Cultural Highlights

Woodfords Corner is rich in both architectural treasures and cultural sites, reflecting its historical significance and growth over the years. These landmarks have helped shape the unique identity of Woodfords Corner, adding to its charm and character.

• Woodfords Congregational Church: This striking Gothic Revival structure, rebuilt in 1957 after a fire, remains a central gathering place for community events and celebrations.

• Odd Fellows Hall: A stately building that has housed community gatherings for over a century, it now hosts art exhibits, community meetings, and occasional performances.

• The Sparrow House (1852): A historic residential property showcasing 19th-century craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood’s early architectural style.

• Engine Co. No. 8 Firehouse (1907): A charming reminder of the neighborhood’s civic pride, this firehouse stands as a testament to the area’s rich history in public service.

Woodfords Congregational Church

Best Restaurants in Woodfords Corner

Woodfords Corner is home to some of Portland's favorite dining spots, offering everything from comfort food to innovative cuisine:

• Bird & Co. – A lively spot known for its creative tacos and cocktails, adding a modern twist to traditional Mexican flavors.

• The Great Lost Bear – A Portland institution, celebrated for its extensive craft beer selection and hearty pub fare, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for both locals and visitors.

• Sissle and Daughters Cafe – Known for its artisan coffee, fresh cheese, and groceries, this café is a go-to for delicious goods.

• Woodford Food & Beverage – A neighborhood staple offering upscale dining in a relaxed setting, known for its oysters and cocktails.

• Big Sky Bakery – A cozy bakery known for its delicious pastries and baked goods, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing afternoon treat.

• Bayou Kitchen – Offering flavorful Southern cuisine with a touch of New Orleans flair, this restaurant is a favorite for hearty comfort food.

• Sun Vietnamese – A hidden gem serving up authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.

• Coveside Coffee – A charming spot for coffee lovers, serving up fresh brews and cozy vibes, perfect for starting your day or taking a midday break.

• Maiz – A vibrant eatery offering flavorful Latin American-inspired dishes, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

• Mister Bagel – A local favorite serving up fresh bagels and breakfast sandwiches, ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.

  
  

Explore more great restaurants and markets in the area with this Woodfords Corner Local Restaurants and Markets Map.

Unique Shops and Local Favorites

Explore the unique shops that make Woodfords Corner a shopping destination:

• Veranda Asian Market – A local gem offering a wide selection of Asian groceries, fresh produce, and specialty ingredients. Perfect for home chefs seeking to explore international flavors.

• Artist & Craftsman Supply – An artist’s paradise with a wide range of high-quality supplies for painting, drawing, sculpture, and more, fueling creativity for both professionals and hobbyists.

• Back Cove Books – A cozy, independent bookstore that offers a carefully curated selection of books. With a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a haven for book lovers of all kinds.

  
  

Community Events

Woodfords Corner is alive with events throughout the year, hosted by local groups like the Friends of Woodfords Corner. Some highlights include:

• Summer Street Fairs: Featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors.

• Art Walks: Monthly events showcasing local artists and galleries, including installations in Odd Fellows Hall.

• Woodfords Corner Clean-Up Day: An initiative to keep the area beautiful, followed by a neighborhood barbecue.

• Farmers Market: Enjoy fresh, local produce and goods at the neighborhood’s farmers market, hosted by the Friends of Woodfords Corner.

• Repair Clubs: Take part in community initiatives like the Repair Club, where neighbors come together to fix and repurpose items, promoting sustainability and creativity. Learn more here.

  
  

In addition to these, you can look forward to an exciting variety of events, such as contra dances, bingo nights, author talks, potlucks, ukulele club meetups, movie screenings, and much more. Stay up to date with the neighborhood's happenings by checking out the Friends of Woodfords Corner event calendar.

Woodfords Club: Vintage Fun for All

For a unique experience, be sure to visit Woodfords Club, where you can enjoy vintage candlepin bowling and pool tables in a relaxed and welcoming environment. It’s a great place to spend time with friends and family while soaking in the neighborhood’s nostalgic charm. Visit the Woodfords Club website for more details.

Explore Woodfords Corner and Stevens Square with Gardner Real Estate!

The welcoming neighborhood of Woodfords Corner is brimming with unique dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. Blending classic architecture with contemporary amenities, it’s the perfect complement to the Stevens Square at Baxter Woods community.

For more information about Stevens Square, please contact Ed and Kelley at Gardner Real Estate Group.