best things to do in portland maine

Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal city known for its rich history, delicious seafood, and vibrant arts scene. Here are some of the best things to do in Portland, Maine:

1. Visit the Old Port: This historic waterfront district is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
2. Explore the Portland Head Light: One of the most iconic lighthouses in the world, the Portland Head Light is a must-visit attraction.
3. Take a Lobster Boat Tour: Learn about Maine’s famous lobster industry and enjoy a fresh lobster roll on a guided boat tour.
4. Walk along the Eastern Promenade: This scenic waterfront park offers stunning views of the city and the bay.
5. Visit the Portland Museum of Art: With a collection of over 18,000 works of art, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
6. Go Shopping at the Public Market House: This bustling marketplace features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
7. Enjoy the Nightlife: Portland has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
8. Visit the Allagash Brewing Company: Take a tour of this renowned brewery and sample some of their famous beers.
9. Take a Day Trip to Peaks Island: Just a short ferry ride from Portland, Peaks Island offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and a charming village.
10. Attend a Festival or Event: Portland hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Portland Winter Festival, the Maine Lobster Festival, and the Portland Jazz Festival.
11. Visit the Wadsworth-Longfellow House: This historic house museum was once the home of famous poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
12. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore the city’s waterways and enjoy the scenic views from a different perspective.
13. Visit the Maine Maritime Museum: Learn about Maine’s rich maritime history and explore the museum’s collection of historic ships and artifacts.
14. Take a Food Tour: Sample the city’s famous seafood and other local specialties on a guided food tour.
15. Visit the Congress Square Park: This vibrant public park hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, farmers’ markets, and outdoor movies.
16. Go Hiking at Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park: Just a short drive from Portland, this park offers beautiful hiking trails and stunning views of the coast.
17. Visit the Victoria Mansion: This stunning Victorian-era mansion features intricate woodwork, stained glass, and other ornate details.
18. Take a Bike Tour: Explore the city’s scenic bike trails and enjoy the views of the coast and the surrounding countryside.
19. Visit the Portland Observatory: This historic observatory offers stunning views of the city and the bay.
20. Go Beachcombing at Willard Beach: This scenic beach is perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Portland, Maine. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city.