Travel Guide • Portland, Maine
A vibrant coastal city guide to Portland's lighthouses, lobster, craft beer, and maritime charm.
Last updated
Written by Kalisa Martin
Travel Expert and Experience Curator specializing in Immersive, place-respectful travel and experience design, with content reviewed against official tourism and park resources.
Fact-checking focuses on restaurant hours, lighthouse visiting guidelines, and ferry schedules from official Portland and Maine tourism sources.
This article is informational only. Always verify current hours, admission fees, and availability directly with venues before visiting.
Highly-rated experiences across the city
Explore Portland's acclaimed culinary scene with a guided walking tour through the Old Port. Sample warm donuts, local specialties, and hidden gems while learning about the city's rich history.
Visit Portland's most iconic lighthouses including Portland Head Light and Cape Elizabeth Light. Enjoy scenic coastal drives, rocky shoreline walks, and photo opportunities at Maine's most photographed landmarks.
Experience Portland's rich maritime heritage with visits to three historic lighthouses. Learn about local history and culture while exploring the stunning Maine coastline.
Portland, often called "The Forest City", is Maine's largest city and cultural hub. Despite its growth, it maintains the charm and character of a much smaller coastal town, with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a thriving waterfront that has drawn sailors, artists, and food lovers for generations.
Today, Portland is best known for three things: world-class seafood (especially lobster), an extraordinary craft beer scene with more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city, and some of the most photographed lighthouses in New England. Whether you're here for a weekend or a week, the city rewards those who explore beyond the Old Port tourist district.
Yes—Portland welcomes visitors year-round, with each season offering its own character. Summer and fall are the most popular times, but even winter has its charm with cozy restaurants, holiday festivities, and snow-covered lighthouses. Before you finalize plans, check the latest information from Visit Portland and Maine Office of Tourism for seasonal events, weather updates, and any service changes.
Below you'll find a curated list of top things to do in Portland, followed by practical tips and links to authoritative resources. Use the official sites linked near the end of this page to double-check hours, admission fees, ferry schedules, and current conditions right before you travel.
Handpicked activities, culinary experiences, and coastal adventures curated by local experts and loved by travelers worldwide
Explore Portland's acclaimed culinary scene with warm donuts, hidden gems, and local history on this guided walking tour through the Old Port.
Tour one of America's premier craft breweries, famous for Belgian-style beers. Sample flagship brews and learn about the brewing process at this Portland institution.
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Casco Bay with its 200+ islands, scenic views, and abundant marine life along Maine's picturesque coastline.
Explore the calendar islands of Casco Bay—Peaks, Great Diamond, Long Island and more—each offering unique charm, beaches, and local character.
Catch a Portland Sea Dogs minor league baseball game at this beloved ballpark. Great family entertainment with affordable tickets and classic ballpark food.
Visit this stunning Gothic Revival cathedral featuring beautiful stained glass windows, intricate architecture, and peaceful atmosphere in downtown Portland.
Walk or jog this scenic 2.1-mile waterfront trail with panoramic views of Casco Bay, harbor islands, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Depart from this historic ferry terminal for island adventures. Regular service to Peaks Island, Great Diamond, and other Casco Bay destinations.
New England's oldest public art museum featuring American, European, and contemporary works including pieces by Winslow Homer and other Maine artists.
Climb the last remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S. for 360-degree views of Portland, the islands, and the ocean from Munjoy Hill.
Step into one of America's finest examples of pre-Civil War architecture with ornate interiors, period furnishings, and stunning decorative arts.
Wander through cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century brick buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and the vibrant waterfront atmosphere.
Explore this fascinating Civil War-era fort on a small island in Casco Bay. Accessible by kayak or boat tour, offering unique history and harbor views.
Stroll Portland's main waterfront thoroughfare lined with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and working wharves with active fishing boats.
Visit one of Maine's largest craft breweries for tastings, tours, and a look at the brewing process behind popular beers like Shipyard Export Ale.
From iconic culinary experiences to hidden coastal gems, here are our carefully curated recommendations for making the most of your Portland journey
Wander through cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century brick buildings in Portland's most historic neighborhood. Browse boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants while soaking in the maritime atmosphere.
Try Maine's signature dish at iconic spots like Eventide Oyster Co. (brown butter lobster roll), Portland Lobster Company (waterfront classic preparations), or Luke's Lobster (simple, perfect rolls). Most restaurants source lobster daily from local waters.
Tour Maine's oldest lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington in 1791. The iconic white tower perched on rocky cliffs in Fort Williams Park offers stunning Atlantic Ocean views and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in America.
Portland has more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. Visit Allagash Brewing (Belgian-style beers with free tours), Bissell Brothers (innovative IPAs), Foundation Brewing (great taproom), and Austin Street Brewery (neighborhood favorite).
Explore Casco Bay's calendar islands via Casco Bay Lines ferry. Visit Peaks Island for bike rides and coastal walks, Cliff Island for hiking, or Great Diamond Island for peaceful shoreline exploration and local seafood.
Stroll this 2.1-mile waterfront trail with panoramic views of Casco Bay and the harbor islands. Perfect for walking, jogging, or watching sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. The trail connects to East End Beach for swimming in summer.
Step into one of America's finest examples of pre-Civil War architecture. This National Historic Landmark features ornate interiors, period furnishings, and stunning decorative arts. Open seasonally with guided tours.
Beyond lobster, Portland offers world-class dining. Try Fore Street (wood-fired cuisine), Central Provision (shareable plates), Duckfat (Belgian fries and sandwiches), or Street & Co. (Mediterranean seafood). Make reservations well in advance.
New England's oldest public art museum features American, European, and contemporary works including pieces by Winslow Homer (who had a studio nearby). The collection spans from 18th-century European masters to modern Maine artists.
Every Saturday morning (year-round), Deering Oaks Park hosts Maine farmers, bakers, cheese makers, and artisans. Sample local products, grab fresh produce, and experience Portland's strong farm-to-table food culture.
Paddle along Portland's scenic coastline with guided tours that explore hidden coves, lighthouses from the water, and harbor islands. Summer tours often include wildlife sightings like harbor seals, osprey, and sometimes porpoises.
Climb to the top of Portland Observatory (the last remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S.) for 360-degree views of the city, islands, and ocean. The surrounding Munjoy Hill neighborhood offers local cafes, bakeries, and street art.
Everything you need to know before planning your Portland adventure
The best time to visit Portland is from June through October, when the weather is warmest and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer (June-August) brings the liveliest atmosphere with outdoor dining, festivals, and peak tourism. Fall (September-October) offers spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Winter (November-March) is quiet but charming, with holiday decorations, cozy restaurants, and snow-covered lighthouse scenes. Dress warmly and enjoy Portland\'s winter magic without the summer crowds.
We recommend 2-3 days to experience Portland\'s highlights. This gives you time to explore the Old Port, visit lighthouses, sample the food scene, tour breweries, and take a day trip to nearby islands or coastal towns.
A long weekend is ideal: Day 1 for Old Port and dining, Day 2 for lighthouses and coastal drives, and Day 3 for islands or a trip to Kennebunkport. Add extra days if you want to explore more of coastal Maine.
Top spots for lobster in Portland include Eventide Oyster Co. (famous for brown butter lobster rolls), Portland Lobster Company (waterfront dining with classic preparations), and Luke\'s Lobster (simple, delicious lobster rolls).
For a fine dining experience, try Fore Street or Street & Co. For casual waterfront vibes, visit DiMillo\'s On The Water. Most restaurants source lobster daily from local waters, ensuring the freshest possible seafood.
Yes! Portland\'s downtown and Old Port district are very walkable. Most restaurants, shops, galleries, and waterfront attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other. The city is compact and pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and clear signage.
However, you\'ll need a car to visit Portland Head Light (7 miles south), explore coastal areas, or take day trips to nearby towns. Uber and Lyft are available, and some hotels offer shuttle services to major attractions.
Must-visit breweries include Allagash Brewing (famous Belgian-style beers with free tours), Bissell Brothers (IPAs and innovative styles), Foundation Brewing (approachable beers in a great taproom), and Austin Street Brewery (neighborhood favorite).
Many breweries are within walking or short Uber distance of each other. Consider a brewery tour or self-guided crawl through the Industrial Way area, where several top breweries are clustered.
Yes! Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park is free to visit (small parking fee). You can explore the grounds, walk the rocky coastline, and photograph the lighthouse. The museum inside charges admission but the exterior is accessible to all.
Bug Light Park is also free with easy parking. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse can be viewed from the Southern Maine Community College campus parking area at no cost. Most lighthouse grounds are public and free to explore.
Portland is moderately expensive compared to other New England destinations. Hotel rates range from $150-350/night in summer (less in winter). Dining costs $15-30 per person for casual meals, $50-100+ for fine dining. Many top attractions like lighthouses and walking tours are free or low-cost.
Budget tips: Visit in shoulder seasons (May, September-October) for lower hotel rates, eat lobster rolls instead of full dinners, explore free attractions like the Eastern Promenade, and take advantage of brewery tours with complimentary tastings.
Pack layers regardless of season. Summer days can be warm but evenings cool, especially near the ocean. Bring comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, a light rain jacket (coastal weather changes quickly), and sunscreen.
Winter visitors need warm coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots for snow and ice. Spring/fall require medium-weight jackets and long pants. Always pack a sweater or fleece—even July evenings can be chilly on the water.
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your trip smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
Portland's top restaurants fill up quickly, especially in summer. Make reservations 1-2 weeks ahead for popular spots like Eventide, Fore Street, and Central Provision.
Many parking meters and lots are cash-only or coin-operated. Keep quarters handy for street parking, though many garages now accept cards.
Casco Bay Lines operates year-round ferry service to the islands, but schedules vary by season. Check times in advance and arrive 15 minutes early, especially in summer.
Coastal weather changes rapidly. Bring a light jacket or sweater even on warm days—ocean breezes can make it feel 10-15 degrees cooler near the water.
While the Old Port is the main tourist hub, don't miss the East End (breweries and art), West End (Victorian architecture), and Munjoy Hill (panoramic views and local cafes).
This page is written for travelers who want to experience Portland thoughtfully: enjoying its culinary scene, lighthouses, and coastal charm while respecting local communities and culture. Content is periodically reviewed against official tourism and municipal resources as linked above.
Runaway Experience focuses on slow, place-respectful travel, with special attention to New England coastal communities and Maine's maritime culture.
We prioritize official sites like Visit Portland, Maine Office of Tourism, and Casco Bay Lines for hours, schedules, and current information.
Restaurant hours, ferry schedules, and seasonal patterns are re-checked regularly with official sources.
Disclaimer: If you spot outdated information, please contact our editorial team so we can review and update this guide. Always confirm critical details directly with official sources before finalizing your travel plans.