Travel Guide
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- Title
- Your Complete Guide to Portland, Maine
- Description
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On New England’s charming, rugged coast and just two hours from Boston, Portland, Maine, is the kind of place you read about in fairytales and romance novels. The biggest city in the Pine Tree State lures travelers with its stunning outdoor beauty, delectable dining scene, and rich maritime history. Wander through Portland’s historic streets lined with brick buildings and cobblestone pathways as you explore its bustling shore and thriving arts scene. Whether you're slurping freshly shucked oysters at a waterfront eatery or discovering hidden gems in the city’s eclectic neighborhoods, there's always something new to uncover in this underrated coastal gem.
Where to stay
In the most picturesque location on the shores of Casco Bay, Holiday Inn Portland-By The Bay features waterfront views all the way out to the Calendar Islands, and is walking distance to the historic Old Port district. Book a room here for a comfortable and convenient stay. There’s an indoor heated pool and a sauna at the hotel, as well as the Port of Call Restaurant and Lounge with a New England-inspired menu (open daily). Guest rooms are spacious and offer views of Casco Bay or downtown Portland, and amenities include a fitness center, on-site parking (for a fee), and a shuttle that can take you to the airport and other nearby destinations.
Planning to stick around for a while? Book a studio suite at the pet-friendly Candlewood Suites Portland - Scarborough. Whether short or long-term, this is a convenient hotel for the business traveler, a family, or anyone who prioritizes an in-room kitchenette, free laundry facilities, and parking while away from home. The hotel also has a business center, a 24-hour fitness center, and is a quick drive to many of Portland’s best attractions.
Things to Do
Visit Portland Head Light and marvel at the iconic lighthouse, situated in Fort Williams Park. It offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. Then see the city from above at the Portland Observatory, which is 86 feet tall, and is open seasonally (late May to early October). Climb the stairs to the top or opt for a guided tour. The tower is the only historic maritime signal station that remains in the country, and dates back to the early 1800s.
Explore the Old Port. Wander through its cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants in this historic district. Scales, a seafood restaurant and raw bar in the Old Port, is perfect for happy hour.
Experience the city's craft beverage culture through brewery and distillery tours like Maine Brews Cruise. Visit local breweries, such as Allagash Brewing Company, and Oxbow Blending & Bottling, as well as distilleries like New England Distilling. A self-guided brewery tour is possible through the Maine Brewers' Guild's route planner, which allows you to filter by options like family-friendly, food service, and places that have outdoor seating.
Art lovers should explore Portland Museum of Art (founded in 1882, it’s Maine’s largest and oldest public art institution), Maine Historical Society, and other cultural institutions like the Center for Maine Contemporary Art and the Farnsworth Art Museum to learn about the region's history and art scene.
From hiking trails in nearby state parks to kayaking in Casco Bay, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy in and around Portland. Browse through fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious treats at local farmers markets. Or hop on a ferry to explore nearby islands like Peaks Island and Great Diamond Island for a day trip.
Trip Extras
Are you an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Portland and earn points toward future travels. Some fun ones include an oyster farm and tasting sea kayak tour in Casco Bay, a hidden histories small-group walking tour, a sunset charter on a vintage lobster boat, and an Old Port "Seafood Lovers" walking lunch tour that includes a whole lobster roll, a New England clam or seafood chowder, local craft beer (or soda), a whoopie pie or other Maine sweet, and a surprise seafood taste or two along the way.Where to Eat and Drink
A chic Italian small plates spot with a stunning interior, ViA VECCHiA is perfect for dinner and has an extensive drinks menu that includes wine, cocktails, and aperitivos.
Shellfish is a must in Maine. Head to Eventide for oysters, a brown-butter soaked lobster roll, and lobster stew; the Shop by Island Creek Oysters for tinned fish, live shellfish, and caviar; and Bite into Maine for a lobster roll. The track down Mr. Tuna, a hand-roll only food truck that’s open on good weather days.
Order the poutine or Belgian frites at Duckfat (with two family-owned locations). For biscuits, the go-to is Tandem Bakery, and for bagels, head to Scratch.
Locals’ favorites include the Japanese-style Izakaya Minato, the Vietnamese Cong Tu Bot, Central Provisions, the Spanish-inspired Chaval, Bao Bao, Twelve (which is on the water); the globally-influenced Regards; and Restaurante El Corazon for tacos, birria, and enchiladas.
For drinks, head to Blyth and Burrows (vintage-inspired cocktail bar in the Old Port district), the Portland Hunt + Alpine Club (the two-time James Beard semi-finalist for 'Outstanding Bar Program' serves Scandinavian and Alpine-style bites), Maine & Loire (a wine shop and tasting room), and Bar Futo (sake, highballs, and yakitori — they also have a great happy hour).
Transportation
Portland has a reliable bus system operated by METRO. It's an affordable way to get around the city. It’s also a bike-friendly city, with bike lanes and rental options available, making it easy to explore the city's neighborhoods on two wheels. Many attractions in Portland are within walking distance, especially in the downtown area. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the stroll. If you plan to explore beyond the city limits, renting a car gives you flexibility. Parking is available in downtown areas, but it can be limited during peak times. Rideshare is always an option, too.
Portland International Jetport (PWM) serves the city with domestic and international flights. It's located just a short drive from downtown.
Explore More Nearby
Known for its shopping, Freeport is so much more than outlet malls! Just 20 minutes from Portland, the town is filled with historic buildings, rich history, spectacular scenery, and museums and galleries. Visit Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, the Desert of Maine, and Maine Beer Company while in the area.
A charming coastal town famous for its beaches, historic homes, and seafood restaurants, Kennebunkport is about 40 minutes from Portland by car.
And under an hour from Portland, you’ll find Ogunquit, an old shipbuilding village. Its charm is amplified by its rich history as an artists colony. The year-round destination attracts beach-lovers, is LGBTQ+ friendly, and is perfect for city folk who want to get away for a couple days.
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