We know how much goes into capturing those perfect moments that live on long after you leave, here are some inspiring photo hot spots. Tip: Though I deemed the truffle ketchup the best homemade dipping sauce they serve, you can order a flight of all the six and judge for yourself. tours: Portland, Maine: 2-Hour History Tour with Sweet Treat, The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local, Its always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. When your stomach is rumbling after a long day of travel, youll need some tasty treats to help you refuel. Dust off your collar dresses and low-heel flats!

During the holidays, the citys famous Polar Express is co-organized by the auditorium.

But, thats not all!

Maine is no stranger to lighthouses, so it takes something special for them to stand out, and thats exactly what the quaint little bug light does. The shopping scene can get overwhelming in Portland, but In the Know Shopping can take you on a tour to many of their favorites. Address:58 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101, USA. So many people add shopping to their list of reasons to visit Greater Portlandfrom handcrafts to haute-couture. You can even rent Merrill Auditorium for your own events. You can go on guided tours of this octagonal tower that stays open from late May to October. For all the home chefs out there, dont miss a stop at Salt Cellar who carries a full line of gourmet flavors, or pop into Skordo who specializes in freshly ground spices, herbs, blends and rubs. Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at, . or unleash your inner foodie while learning about sustainability on a guided Maine Food for Thought tour. Its the kind of place where street musicians always have their hats on the ground and crowds line up for hours at their favorite crab joints. Youll find all of the latest trends in Munjoy Hill. Peek our Maine itineraries for a ideas on how you could spend a fun-filled day like no other in Greater Portland. The Friteshack is an offshoot of the well-known Duckfat restaurant in Portland, and a popular one at that. Youll also be treated to complimentary hot chocolate when you return to the stables! Have you ever seen a 1,700-pound chocolate moose? If youre wondering what to do in Portland on a dull afternoon, you can add some serious interest to your day with a trip to Bedrock Gardens.

On the first Friday of every month, all of the art institutions open their doors to the public from 5PM 8PM. A peek at where Maines lobster comes from: From lobster to museums to a booming craft beer scene, the city of Portland is packed with the best things to do and attractions to see. The shack is a casual joint where you place your order at the walk-up window from the limited menu. Do you like looking at skeletons that could be yetis or mammoths? The Maine Mall is one of the best things to do in Portland when you have a little money to spare. Today, visitors to the lighthouse can climb the stairs, see the sights, take a tour, explore the on-site museum or just lounge around the grass. There are many nightclubs in downtown Portland, but Bubbas Sulky Lounge uses its vintage theme to stand apart from the rest. For example, did you know that many of Portlands beers were aged in oak barrels until modern machines came along? Find special deals on tours and attractions to maximize your visit. Another great thing about the Fore River Sanctuary is that its still accessible to visitors despite its natural landscapes. It offers games, slides, carousels, bumper cars, kiddie pools and fun houses. There are many places to see and explore. The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum will be a little like your childhood dreams coming to life. Address: Congress Street, Portland, ME, USA. Its also the only cryptozoology museum in the world, so its quite literally a one-of-a-kind attraction. When youre in town, stop by our Visitor Information Center to pick-up brochures, Visitors Guides, maps of the region, and plenty of pro-tips to help make the most of your stay in Greater Portland. Taxis, Lyft and Uber are available all over the city. No matter what you come here for, or when you arrive, the list of things to do in Portland is pleasantly long. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of other options. If youre ready to experience the magic for yourself, let these suggestions be your guide for a great trip to Portland. Maybe you just want something to do on a sunny day in Portland. There are no guarantees of safety if you reach a crumbling deck or overgrown bunker wall. Peaks Island is one of those rare tourist attractions that doesnt feel like a tourist attraction. However, it distinguishes itself from the rest by offering cool things to do that you cant find on the other isles. Artists, galleries, and venues open doors for the citys thriving art scene! Cobblestone streets, red-bricked buildings, charming boutiques, trendy restaurants and fishing piersthats what youll find in Portlands Old Port. For even more information read our article: 5 Epic Lighthouses in (& Around) Portland Maine. But, it is fun to explore anytime of the year! ), but what is special about this one is that you have the opportunity to tour it.

Check out our full line up of events by browsing our calendar! When the whales appear, the wait will be worth it. For a more budget friendly option, you can take the public bus or metro/subway. There might be guided nature walks at sunrise and bachata dance classes lighting up the lamp posts at night. Getting Around: Driving in a new destination can be a bit of a challenge, but if you choose to rent a car, RentalCars.com has great deals. You should definitely check out Peaks Island if youre looking for the best destinations in and near Portland! Yep, all the drinks are just five bucks, hence the name. The magic happens in the heart of a working waterfront, where craftspeople meticulously design, sew and finish each piece. Is that something that youd like to add to your bucket list? I will be on a tour in Oct. 2022 So this will come in handy. If everyone is going crazy over a bubble tea, it originated from a Munjoy Hill cafe. Taxis, Lyft and Uber are available all over the city.

Maine has lots of beautiful, natural destinations, and a place like the Greenbelt Walkway will let you see them all along a single trail. Also, the India Street Food Artisans will keep your taste buds ablaze from the spices of the east. If your perfect afternoon includes ogling famous works of art, then the Portland Museum of Art is one of the top things for you to do in the city. Its a heavily wooded area, so its easy to imagine tiny winged creatures darting among the trees and ravines. Dont vacation in the state without stopping by its top attraction! It doesnt get more quintessential Maine then eating fresh lobster, and Portland has some of the best. Whether its a film festival for silent movies or a poetry slam in a hallway filled with hand-painted watercolors, theres always something different going on at SPACE. Live to eat should be your motto while in Portland as it has a vast variety of yummy food options and restaurants. Explore Maines local brew scene, a variety of walking tours, history and landmarks, and much more. All Rights Reserved.

As for its drinks, youll be able to enjoy all kinds of special cocktails from both the past and the present. Then dont walk, run to Duckfat Friteshack for some of the best made from hand-cut Maine potatoes and fried inyou guessed it duck fat. Love to shop.. fine unique local shops. For its time, the mansion also had modern amenities such as hot and cold water and a central heating system. Once youve cracked the code to get into this chill underground bar youll be greeted with a packed house who have come for the low-key vibe and $5 drinks. It offers beaches, playgrounds, fields, groves and nature trails.

This museum is part of the Portland Arts District, so if youve already marked off a weekend for exploring the bounds of West End, you can skip this part of the list. How often do you get the chance to buy shoes and eat bonbons at the biggest shopping complex in Maine? Art lovers, you wont want to miss the Portland Museum of Art. You dont have to complicate things to make them delicious! , and here are some of the top ones. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance. No matter where your alcohol tolerance lies, however, youre guaranteed to have a good time at the Allagash Brewery. On sunny days, it can even become a family-friendly place if the kids want to play or picnic on the grass outside of the fort. Address:132 Botanical Gardens Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA.

If youre looking for the most tropical vacation that you can have in Maine, Crescent Beach is the place to be.

Its a chance to see how your favorite craft beers are made while you sip on the fruits of the labor that youre witnessing before you. Address:364 Maine Mall Rd, South Portland, ME 04106, USA, Located a few miles south of Portland in a place called Old Orchard Beach, Palace Playland is known as Maines only beachfront amusement park.. You just have to find them. Here are just a few cool things to do in Portland. You can go to any of their three locationsPark Avenue, Exchange Street and Scarboroughfor your dose of donuts. Youll enjoy Bug Light Park if youre looking for a peaceful place to spend an easygoing afternoon. Awesome list! Youve probably seen Portland even if youve never been there. With its jagged cliffs, crashing waves and historic white-towered lighthouses, its the kind of picturesque place that makes it onto all kinds of postcards. As visitors survey the scenic vistas of this historic city on Casco Bay, gaze at boats that come and go from the waterfront, and watch the activity along the downtowns cobblestone streets, finding things to do may be the furthest thing from their minds. Meant for both serious scholars and roadside gawkers, its one of the most fun things to do in Portland. Its best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. Visit the Rockin Horse Stables if youre hoping to have a fanciful time in Portland. Lucky Catch Cruises will take you on a boat ride with real fishermen to bait, catch, trap and haul sea critters from the deep. Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com. Do you enjoy going to classes and workshops where you can learn new things? It isnt a coincidence that its one of the most highly-traveled and highly-regarded parts of Maine! Its a horticultural sanctuary that emphasizes art just as much as nature, so its a fun destination for people who enjoy new experiences. Its packed with businesses, so there are always special deals, events and giveaways. Another great thing about the Maine Mall is that it hosts special events throughout the year. I can promise you that you will not leave this tour disappointed or hungry! Despite the name, you wont be disturbed by any bites or stings at Bug Light Park. Activities at the Old Port range from exciting ferry rides to leisurely food tours. Theres even a Fairy Village that lets you construct your own wood-and-metal fairy house and leave it for future visitors to find. Everything about it is grand including the exterior that has balconies and verandas, and an interior dcor of gilded areas, wall paintings, stained-glass skylight, beautiful draperies and splendid furniture. Its all at your fingertips. Despite the name, it offers all kinds of sweet treats that arent derived from cacao beans; you can find taffy, truffles, twinkies, gummies, nuts and many other snacks. If youre traveling there in the wintertime, there are even slopes where you can go skiing! Crescent Beach State Park has a little something for everyone, so its definitely one of the best Portland attractions on the map.

Whatever you do, dont miss the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum with its assortment of umbrella covers displayed with various themes (including an X-rated section!). It offers everything from chewy fudge squares to soft cinnamon rolls dripping with icing. Maine is following the National CDC guidelines every step of the way. The DiriGo Pass Card is an all-in-one transit card offering rides on multiple forms of transportation (metro, train, bus) for one fee. Maybe youre looking for a nice hotel during your romantic honeymoon. Find places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shops, group meeting services, venues, and much more. Home to Jewell Falls, the only natural waterfall in Portland, the Fore River Sanctuary is a great place to get away from it all. For something on the less expensive side, try, located in Portland.

Located on a functioning narrow-gauge railway, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum offers an experience thats both interesting and educationally engaging. Sometimes, a little R&R is the most enjoyable part of a getaway. With fresh snow blanketing the ground, you can cuddle close under a cozy blanket while enjoying a sleigh ride for two. Its rides directly overlook the water, so when youre screaming on the roller coaster or relaxing on the Ferris wheel, youll be doing it with incredible ocean views! Its one of the most popular venues in Portland, and it hosts everything from concerts to theater productions within a vintage, turn-of-the-century building with a gigantic pipe organ as its centerpiece. Address: 227 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA.

Built around 1860, this ornate summer mansion turned museum is impressive with its vintage look and captivating history. Another nice thing about the Greenbelt Walkway is that it offers different things to do along the way. Despite its proximity to the water, Portland isnt really considered a tropical location.

Though the stops and dishes can change, there was quite a delectable sampling on the day of my tour. It is the home of microbrews and sea cruises, of a world-class food and art + culture scene. Under their careful instruction, you can get your hands dirty like youre part of the crew. Address:50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103, USA. If being on a bus is not your thing, then take a walking beer tasting tour. One of the most anticipated acts of the Merrill Auditorium is the Portland Symphony Orchestra. An arcade is filled with photobooths and skeeball lanes. Romance can bloom in spring and summer, too. The Allagash Brewery still uses wooden barrels for some of its specialty beers. Not only do these locations offer great views of boats docking and fishermen calling out their hauls, but theyre also lined with everything from seafood restaurants to customized t-shirt shops. With a collection of over 18,000 pieces on rotation you are bound to see some notable names during your visit, like Claude Monet and Andy Warhol. Receive information to assist you in planning your Maine vacation. The Portland Observatory is a rare sight. The only difference between its past and present is that the tower has exchanged whale oil lamps for electric lights. There are definitely worse ways to spend a weekend in Maine! Bubbas Sulky Lounge is one of the best destinations in downtown Portland, so if youre looking for ways to cut loose on a lively evening, dont hesitate to hit it up. One of the most iconic sights in Portland is the Portland Head Light. To enjoy Portland like a local, youll need to know all of the local points of interest. For example, if youre marrying or honeymooning in Portland, you might like the classically romantic architecture as a backdrop for your wedding portraits. Its one of the biggest tourist attractions in Portland, and itll offer an entertaining day trip for visitors of all ages. You can shop right there in the front storeroom where hundreds are displayed, including their vintage collection that feature mainsail insignia logos. You can really breathe there in a way that you might not be able to when youre jostling elbows with every Tom, Dick and Harry in the city. Not only is it a unique structure in Maine, but its also the last surviving tower of its kind in the entire United States. SPACE holds plenty of fundraisers, and they often intersect with films, lectures and gallery showings. Why are the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens so special? Novare Res Bier Caf is a popular hidden beer garden that not only has a great food menu but also a nice international draft and bottle list. is a great choice in the Portland district. If youre looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to Airbnb that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.

The Fore River Sanctuary offers gorgeous landscapes that havent been touched or tempered by man. Winter is the best time to visit the Rockin Horse Stables. Len Libby Chocolates is a candy shop located a short drive from Portland. But, the most impressive and the one that is best known is the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park.

If you are the kind who just cant resist historical lighthouses there a handful in the Portland area, each with its own charm. If youre traveling on a budget, you could probably use some free things to do in Portland. 2022 Visit Portland. Maine has some of the best shores in the world for whale-watching, and Odyssey Whale Watch will let you get up close and personal with these majestic mammals. Check out our go-to guide for Greater Portland for more info! There are always neat things to do in the gardens. The educational food tour will lead you on a walking path to eat your way through restaurants who feature locally sourced ingredients and a farm-to-table mindset. That said, there are still a few places where you can go to enjoy sand and sun, and one of them is Crescent Beach State Park. There are also double dance floors, so when you get too sweaty on the first one, head to the second and keep the party going. The quaint island has a population of under 1,000, but it is packed with something for everyone. Its so good that we consider it one of our top 10 places to visit in Portland.

One thing is for sure: The Merrill Auditorium is the beating heart of the arts and culture scene in Portland. Built in 1897, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is a caisson-style light station (the only one in the United States! If you are up for a little more activity, opt to pop into a kayak to tool around the bay or take a bike ride along the scenic pathways.

Stop by Commercial Street if youre looking for fun things to do in Portland. There are other things to enjoy at Palace Playland as well. Theres also a liberty ship memorial on the far end of the park that houses the remnants of a WWII vessel. If you sigh every time that you see the brush strokes of Wheatfield With Crows, check out the Portland Arts District. They offer a variety of horse-drawn rides, including carriage rides and sleigh rides, so theyre easily one of the most romantic things to do in Portland. Its a great taste of vintage New England, and you can take in lots of landmarks during your stay. For instance, the Union Restaurant dished up a bowl of locally sourced clam chowder with trout and Evo served a beet salad with a kalamata olive crumble and famous Maine blueberries. By shopping online at our local boutiques and shops, you can bring a piece of Maine straight to your front door. The tights are optional. Its specialty is experimental, contemporary art, so its always on the lookout for fun, fresh, colorful and offbeat things. Browse through the special packages and deals offered by participating businesses. From the airport to the city center, you can use the subway, private car, limousine, shuttle or take a taxi. Love the water take a sailing excursion or boat tour. Fort Gorges is an abandoned military fortress off the shores of Casco Bay. Its the only museum in the world dedicated to rare, elusive and possibly-mythical creatures like Bigfoot and Sasquatch, and itll provide hours of entertainment for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in mystery.

Despite its reputation as an expensive place, there are free things to do in the neighborhood. Found behind an unassuming shopfront, Standard Baking is one of the best bakeries in the city. Everything about it has become a relic of the past. It isnt a luxury liner, but its comfortable, and its petite size will let its captain maneuver you closer to the whales. Youll definitely be able to stop until you drop at the Maine Mall. Warning: you may just have to do a lot of research (lobster sampling) to find your favorite. 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Sacramento (California), 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cancun (Mexico), 12 Captain Strout Cir, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107, USA, 245 Arundel Rd, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA, 4 Thompsons Point #106, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 170 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 132 Botanical Gardens Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA, 227 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 510 Eastern Promenade, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 364 Maine Mall Rd, South Portland, ME 04106, USA, 1 Old Orchard St, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, USA, 75 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 109 Bowery Beach Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107, USA, 7 Congress Square, Portland, ME 04101, USA, 50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103, USA, 157-169 Rowe Ave, Portland, ME 04102, USA, 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fort Collins (Colorado), 25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Norfolk (Virginia), 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Carlsbad (California), 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Park City (Utah), 31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Tyler (Texas). The best thing about Deering Oaks, however, is the fact that its a bustling venue for all kinds of Portland events. Theres nothing quite like drinking a cold one in the open air while sitting at a picnic table with your pooch or playing a game of corn hole. No other bakery gets this honor, but Standard Baking is just too delicious!

For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the, . If you enjoy sightseeing, you can visit on-site landmarks like the old railway or the mass grave of American soldiers lost in the War of 1812. Address:75 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA. Take advantage of the opportunity while you can! 5 Epic Lighthouses in (& Around) Portland Maine Rockland Maine Bucket List: 9 Fun Things to Do 5 Winter Activities in Portland, Maine That Will Get You in the Holiday Spirit Maines Pemaquid Point (& Peninsula) Bucket List: 9 Great Things to Do Peaks Island Maine Bucket List: 9 Best Things to Do Rangeley Bucket List: Summer Things to Do in Maines Laidback City Kennebunkport Maine Bucket List: 20+ Things To Do in The Coastal Town 5 Things Not to Miss in Portland, Maine This Summer Great Towns: 8 Best Places to Live in Maine. Its only a few miles from downtown Portland, so it isnt like you have to go on a long voyage to get there, and youll get to partake in some fun and unusual hobbies while youre visiting. Theres also the Portland Ballet and the Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ. Located a few miles west of Portland, its only accessible by a ferry ride, and it offers all kinds of fun activities for people who want to escape the crowds of the city. Then send your trip plan to your family and friends. Address: Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101, USA. There are flowers, trees and streams as far as the eye can see, and there are plenty of pavilions and pagodas if you want to take a break in the shade. It offers a lot of cool things to see, catalogue and photograph, so its perfect for people who arent afraid to wander off the beaten path. Put it on your list of Portland attractions if you want to be awed by the beauty and tranquility of nature. Throw in all kinds of shops, bars, pubs, boutiques and restaurants, and youve got the greatest tourist destination in Portland! Getting to observe these amazing animals in the wild is one of the top things to do in Portland, so dont be afraid to call Odyssey Whale Watch and book a tour today. Can you just imagine basking in the sun onboard a beautiful sailing boat with the wind in your hair and a glass of champagne in your hand? This metropolitan city with small town charm is a cultural mecca and wildlife wonderland. Take a boat tour; walk through the butterfly house; visit the cafe and souvenir shop. But what if youre looking for something a little more exciting than a photograph? You can walk, jog, skate or bike it, and best of all, it wont cost you a cent. Youll be so close to them that you can count the water droplets on their backs! Now thats a sightseeing opportunity that you dont want to miss!

In addition to the usual fountains and statues, there are also gates, groves, birdhouses and all kinds of homemade sculptures made from metal and fabric. If you prefer not to mist yourself with sea spray, wander towards the historic side of Commercial Street and enjoy the old-world charm of colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Thanks for the info, now we have to make choices! You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner, which also has the option to choose cheapest month as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination.

For all you beer lovers out there, Portlands craft beer scene is booming! They range from the outstanding to the outlandish, but theyll all leave you with great memories of your time in Maine! Theres always something new to experience! Fortunately, Eastern Promenade is so much fun that youll marvel at the fact that it doesnt cost a dime! If youre a patron of the arts, the Portland Arts District is an absolute must-see while youre in Maine. There are places to lay down a towel and work on your tan; there are places to swim, hike, fish, kayak, picnic or wade into tide pools and pick up starfish. Everyone has to eat, but you dont have to sustain yourself on fast food scarfed down in a hotel room. You could whittle away entire weekends with all of its games and amusements, and youll never get another view like the one atop its gigantic rides! There are fields, ponds, playgrounds and ball fields for visitors of all ages, and seasonal activities like ice-skating will keep you occupied at any time of year. tours: Insurance: Its always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You might not want to live around Munjoy Hill, but in terms of fun places to visit, it deserves to be on your vacation itinerary. How would YOU live like a local? You will also get an understanding of the local food culture and delve even deeper with the stories behind the plate. If you dont want the carbs, then just opt for a whole lobster tail on a plate. Have you ever wondered about the journey of a lobster from the bottom of the ocean to the top of a plate? There are plenty of free things to do around Portland. Take a tour inside with knowledgeable guides who will tell you all about the mansionfrom its origins as a summer residence for hotelier Ruggles Sylvester Morse to being bought by a resident of Maine who converted it into a museum. Driving in a new destination can be a bit of a challenge, but if you choose to rent a car. You dont have to, because this can be your reality. If you like the thought of strolling near the waterfront with a cold drink in hand and your flip-flops slapping against the cobblestones, check out the Old Port. Its such a cool and unique thing to do that it draws visitors like a moth to a flame. Portland vacations dont have to be jam-packed with tourist attractions to be exciting. While it offers plenty of things to see and do, its still remote enough to have a quiet, peaceful atmosphere as a semi-private isle. There are always people weaving around each other, especially near the wharves and docks.

Theres no shortage of beautiful, stunning places to snap, but these are the ones that come up as some of the most romantic, time and time again. Were coming in October cant wait to have lobster. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of other options. You can easily set out to find your own delicious meal (which wont be hard!) For those preferring to focus on filling their days with fun activities and enduring memories, Greater Portland delivers. Address:92 Portland St, Portland, ME 04101, USA.

You could spend all day exploring its performance venues, and you wouldnt even need a car for your travels.

Address:109 Bowery Beach Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107, USA, University of Southern Maine School of Music / flickr. Fort Gorges is an entirely self-guided attraction, and this can mean both good and bad things for Portland vacationers. But, thats half the fun! There could not be a better name than Holy Donut for this establishment as the taste of their specialty donuts is simply divine. From luxury stores to cheap kiosks, it has a little bit of everything.

Of course, the lighthouse isnt the only attraction at Bug Light Park. Address:20 Myrtle St, Portland, ME 04101, USA. Just make sure that you bring that flashlight if you really want to excavate something from the ruins. We are here for the next 2 days and will try to cram in as much of these as possible! Rather than being housed in a single building, its actually comprised of three buildings that are joined together with a common purpose, and they boast more than 17,000 paintings and artifacts all together. Back when it was built by Captain Lemuel Moody in 1807, it functioned as a communication tower for ships making their way to the docks. Join lifelong Mainers, Amy + Dan, as they make their way down the coast for seven days of fun in the sunexploring a bit of everything Maine has to offer.