Portland ME makes for a great vacation destination all year long. Portland ME is a small, laid-back town that offers boutique shopping, fine dining and historical tours.
Try a scrumptious fusion of Japanese izakaya cuisine and coastal Maine ingredients at the popular Izakaya Minato. Also visit the Portland Museum of Art, which showcases creative expression that is one-of-a-kind!
The Old Port
This historic port district is filled with cobblestone streets, ocean air and boutiques. It was once the center of commercial and shipping activities. Now, this area is a vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment district.
The Old Port is also home to the Harold Alfond Children’s Garden, a whimsical space featuring fairy gardens, a garden of the five senses, and much more. Even a Native Butterfly House and Moth House is available!
Several popular local chains and independent boutiques line the cobblestone streets. There are also a variety of restaurants in this area. If you love to shop, be sure to check out the Old Port Market, a bazaar held every first Friday of the month that features local artisan and craft vendors.
The Beaches
One of the best things to do in Portland Maine is to visit a local beach. Many beautiful beaches are within a short drive of the city, including Old Orchard Beach State Park and Crescent Beach State Park.
The area also boasts rocky shorelines with hundreds of tidal pools, perfect for walking and finding crabs and other sea life. A popular attraction is the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park, one of the premier lighthouses in America and a top tourist destination.
Those looking for more of a thrill can enjoy surfing or stand-up paddleboarding at Higgins Beach in nearby Scarborough, where waves are usually strong enough to provide decent surf conditions. Or, for a more relaxing day at the beach, visit Ship Cove, where gentle waters and flat sand meet beneath imposing cliffs. Parking is easy and the beach never gets too crowded. This is a good swimming spot for kids and families.
The Museums
Located in a turn-of-the-century Jewish synagogue, this museum offers contemporary art exhibitions of established and Maine-connected artists in a serene space spread across three buildings. It also hosts educational activities like film showings and curator talks for members, as well as family-friendly art-making workshops.
Victoria Mansion, one of America’s most significant nineteenth-century houses, is a must see. Its interiors are stunning and a sight to behold. The second floor isn’t accessible, but visitors with limited mobility can view the rooms and history on an iPad slideshow.
The kids will love Palace Playland, which has 28 outdoor rides and a full indoor arcade. Those who’d rather get out on the water can take a lobstering cruise with Lucky Catch Cruises. History buffs will enjoy the Portland Head Light and the other lighthouses. If you’re a fan of art, check out Greenhut Galleries and Guven Gallery, Heron Point Glass Gallery, and Holly Ready Gallery. Explore the historic Henry Wadsworth Longfellow House.
The Restaurants
The city’s restaurants, which are based on local ingredients, are as varied as its population. Eventide Oyster Co has a huge selection of oysters in their raw bar and a lobster roll that’s not just about lobster. The toasted bun is soft and similar to an Asian-style roll. They also add pickled vegetables, aioli and celery salt.
Central Provisions, a two-story restaurant that offers upscale comfort foods and cocktails. Chef and owner Brian Hibbard draws on experience from Los Angeles, Mexico, New York City, and more when creating his menu. Small plates include smoked carrots and goat cheese with whipped gorgonzola, as well as spicy raw beef salad topped with cilantro and peanuts. Entrees are sirloin and shepherd’s pie.
In the heart of downtown is UNION, a restaurant and meat market that uses seafood from the nearby harbor, produce from local farms, and honey from its rooftop beehives. Pair dishes with cocktails like the Emergency Margarita (Reposado tequila, Grand Marnier, Aperol, grapefruit, and chipotle salt) or a craft beer.
