Top 9 Must See in Portland, Maine
Known for its charming waterfront, fascinating history, and numerous outdoor activities, Portland, Maine, is a city that's sure to dazzle travelers. From historic lighthouses to great summer festivals, this beautiful city has countless things to do. With so many attractions and all the fun places around town, which ones are worth your time? Don't worry--we've got you covered! Here are our top picks for the best must-see places in Portland, Maine -- perfect for a memorable getaway!
Looking for insider tips on exploring Portland? Swing by the Portland Visitors Center! They have everything you need to navigate the city, from visitor guides to brochures and maps. Plus, you can chat with friendly locals who know all the best spots.
1. Bug Light
When it comes to lighthouses, Maine has got it covered. But one really steals the show - the adorable "bug light." Its short and sweet tower watches over the waterfront and attracts visitors from all over. The Portland Breakwater Light, as it's officially named, stands a mere 26 feet tall. It has been standing guard in the Portland Harbor since 1855.
Bug Light Park is the place to be if you need some peace and relaxation. Forget the typical touristy hotspots in Portland because sometimes the best vibes are in the most serene settings. So, bring some snacks, snuggle up on a blanket, and let your kite soar high as you bask in the tranquility of this park.
Bug Light
Explore Portland, Maine with us!
2. Portland Head Light
Yes, I am bringing you another lighthouse. Maine has over 60 historic lighthouses, so of course, Portland has its fair share of beautiful beacons of light. The original Portland Head Light stood 72’ high and was lit with 16 whale oil lamps. The lighthouse was first lit in 1771. You can tour this historic lighthouse once a year on Maine Open Lighthouse Day.
The lighthouse sits adjacent to Fort Williams Park. This park has 90 acres open for recreation. It’s the perfect place to hike, explore historic ruins, picnic, fly a kite, or just kick back and people watch. The park is free and open year around.
Portland Head Light
3. Goddard Mansion
Make sure you don't forget to check out the Goddard Mansion while you're at Fort Williams Park! This mansion, built in 1859 for a wealthy businessman, has an exciting history. It was purchased by the military in 1900 and later bought by the city in the 60s. Unfortunately, the mansion was in such bad shape that it couldn't be restored. In fact, the fire department had to burn the interior in 1981 to eliminate dangerous debris.
Goddard Mansion Ruins
4. Commercial Street
Love the salty breeze and waterfront vibes? Commercial Street has it all - seaside shops, bars, pubs, boutiques, and tons of restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the boats come in, or grab a custom tee as a souvenir. It's the perfect tourist spot that you definitely don't want to miss!
Old Town Portland
5. Lucky Catch cruises
Ever wondered how a lobster makes its way from the ocean floor to your dinner plate? Lucky Catch Cruises has the perfect adventure for you! Hop on board a boat with real fishermen and learn how to catch, trap, and haul sea critters in the Atlantic. And the best part? You can buy your freshly caught lobsters at a wholesale price! Then, head to a fantastic seafood restaurant where they'll cook your catch right in front of you. Get ready for a sea-to-table experience that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
Portland Wharf
6. Portland Observatory
Captain Moody commissioned the construction of this 86 foot high tower in 1807. Moody designed the tower to give a competitive edge to ship owners who paid $5 a year to be alerted when their ships arrived in port. Moody could see vessels 30 miles out. Ship owners would be notified by hoisting signal flags up the tower.
The tower operated until 1939 when the invention of 2-way radios made it obsolete. It is the only remaining historic maritime signal station in the United States. Portland Observatory tours are available May through October for a small fee.
Portland Observatory standing tall in Portland.
7. Fort Allen Park
Just above Casco Bay, you will find a 10 acre park with plenty for everyone in the family. The park is perfect for picnicking, kayaking, bike riding, and running. You can also catch a summer concert at the bandstand, explore the memorials and monuments, or grab some lunch from Eastern Prom’s Food Truck Park.
Kayaks on the beach near Fort Allen Park
8. Harbor Fish market
Looking for the freshest Maine lobster and seafood? Look no further than the iconic Harbor Fish Market, a local favorite since the 1800s. Their seafood is so fresh restaurants all over the northeast trust them for their customers. You can even have the best Maine seafood shipped straight to your door, including live Maine lobster.
Harbor Fish Market
9. Sail with Portland Schooner Co.
Experience the beauty of Casco Bay like never before on a charming wooden Maine Schooner—step aboard one of their three magnificent boats listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Get ready to unwind and soak in the stunning city skyline and refreshing sea breeze while the picturesque Casco Bay islands drift by. Make memories that will last a lifetime with Portland Schooner Co.
Sailing Casco Bay
Map of Portland locations
Portland eats
Standard Baking Co: voted best in Portland by the locals. The brownie is the best brownie that I have ever had. The chocolate chip cookie was warm and gooey. They are best known for their fresh loaves of bread, so don’t forget to pick up a loaf while you are there.
The Holy Donut: Maine potato donuts (spudnuts), made from scratch daily. Potato donuts are totally a thing and totally deliciously sweet! PS: the bacon and chocolate were the best!
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub: This Portland stable opened in 1929 as a breakfast spot for local fishermen. This is no seaside tourist trap! This is the place for the BEST lobster roll in Portland. Yes, I verified it myself.
Portland top Breweries
You may be surprised to know that Portland’s craft beer scene is the hops (see what I did there)! While you are here for lighthouses, lobster, and coastal views, be sure to take a little time to explore a few local craft breweries. There are plenty of good ones to choose from!
The food at this brewery is even better than the beer!
See ya in Portland!
All in all, Portland, Maine, has something for everyone. Whether your trip goal is to explore the area’s rich history, vast outdoor activities, flourishing culinary scene, or take advantage of the region’s craft brewery bounty, you won’t be disappointed with what Portland offers. So why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to explore all that beautiful Portland, Maine, has to offer!
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About the Author: Meet Stacy! Stacy and her husband, Phil, are a wanderlust couple who have been roaming the great USA for an epic 5 years! They ditched the daily grind to embark on thrilling adventures and inspire fellow dreamers to chase their travel dreams. Curious about how they do it? Check out their awesome youtube channel, Today is Someday, where they're spilling all the secrets to living a life on the move. Get ready to pack your bags and join them on this incredible journey.