Things to Do in Greater Portland, Maine

Are you in the beautiful Portland, Maine, and looking for some fun? Look no more, here’s a list full of things to do and places to visit!

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Portland may not be one of the first tourist destinations that come to mind when you’re planning a trip to the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it lacks charm. You’ll meet a lovely coastal city with great scenery, rich history, thriving arts culture, and excellent food. It’s not as lively as the big cities in North America, but that in itself is part of its appeal. You can relax in a trendy restaurant with plenty of fresh seafood, or visit the historic buildings in complete peace. It’s indeed an interesting place, and it offers a bit of everything, so no matter what your interests are you’ll find things to do in Portland, Maine.

 

Things to do in Portland, Maine

Explore Portland HeadLight

If you search for lighthouse photos in the U.S. chances are Portland Headlight is going to appear on the very first page. It’s one of the oldest in the whole country, being built in 1791, and commissioned by George Washington himself. You can visit it directly, in Cape Elizabeth, a few miles from downtown Portland. From there, aside from spectacular photos, you’ll get great views of the ocean.

What else to do on Portland Head Light:

• The Museum: If you want to learn more about the history of the place and see how the lighthouse keeper lived centuries ago.

• Walk to Fort Williams Park: To enjoy some light exercise, explore beautiful trails, and have a quiet picnic near the historical ruins.

Photo by Mercedes Mehling on Unsplash

 

Take an Island Ferry Ride

If you loved the experience at the lighthouse and want to see more of the cost of Portland, then you should take a Ferry Ride to Peaks Island. It’s the perfect way to fully appreciate the beauty of Casco Bay and there are several companies offering them like Casco Bay Island Ferry

Popular ferry routes and islands:

• Peaks Islands: The most visited, and for good reason. There you’ll find nice beaches and biking trails. It has all the feeling of a small town, and you should rent a bike to explore it.

• Great Diamond Island: A quieter retreat with luxury homes, and the added charm of the historic Fort McKinley.

• Chebeague: Farther away than the others, but it’s a great destination if you want a quiet beach with lobster shacks.

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Bowling at Bayside Bowl

If you want to have some fun with family and friends this is an excellent place to visit than Bayside Bowl. There’s nothing like spending a few hours bowling after a long day exploring the city, and even more if you have a rooftop bar and deck to drink afterward. It’s very popular with the locals, but there are 12 bowling lanes in total, so your group won’t have to wait too long if anything at all. And, if you’re a bit bored of the traditional game, you can try the Duckpin Bowling, an interesting variant with unique rules!

 

Discover Maine’s Maritime History with a Lobster Boat Tour

If you’re a fan of the sea and especially of the seafood, then maybe you know that one of the main exports of Portland, and Maine as a whole are lobsters. And if this made you curious or hungry, or both, you can learn a lot more in a Lobster Boat Tour. You’ll see the whole process of baiting, from capturing to measuring in person, and you can talk with captains and workers with years of experience.

What cruises you can join:

• Lucky Catch Cruises: Highly rated and lets you participate in the whole process. Enjoy both the lobster catch and the scenic views of Casco Bay.

• Rocky Bottom Fisheries Lobster Tours: Another great option if you want to combine sightseeing and lobstering. As a plus, you’ll learn how the practice is made sustainable nowadays.

Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash

 

Experience Axe-Throwing at The Axe Pit

If there’s something fun and unique you can do in Portland, Maine, is learn how to throw an axe at The Axe Pit. Even if you’re already a seasoned pro, it’s still nice to have some fun and impress your friends with your accuracy. If you don’t know the first thing, listen for the Axeperts that walk you through the whole process and follow the safety rules.

Important tips for visiting:

• Wear close-toe shoes for your protection and bring a valid ID. You have to be at least 21 to be able to train there.

• There are some hours where it’s first-come, first-served, but it’s best if you make a reservation in advance.

 

Explore Strange Maine and Unique Shops

If you’re a fan of obscure little places and random knickknacks then there are a few stores you definitely should visit!

Unique shops to visit in Portland, Maine:

• Strange Maine: Perfect if you want to add to your growing collection of vintage records and books. There’s absolutely no way to predict what you can find in that little charm store. It’s like an adventure waiting to happen.

• Pinecone+Chickadee: On the same vein as Strange Maine, but with a little more focus on the handmade crafts mix with quirky apparel. It’s nostalgic, like the garage sales from your childhood.

• Flowers & Candy: A small boutique where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts that are elegant, yet a bit whimsy. Go and buy that stylish jewelry you liked, or at least try the gourmet chocolates.

• The Blue Lobster: If you enjoyed the lobster tour before, maybe find some lobster-theme items to bring back home. There you can find all kinds of souvenirs, whether you like the serious ones or prefer a playful reminder of your trip to Portland, Maine.

Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

 

Enjoy the Farmers Market Year-Round

When you think of the Farmers Market you might be inclined to skip it, thinking that’s only for the people who actually live in Portland and make their shopping there. But there’s a lot of stuff to see and try even if you’re only staying for a day or two. If you want to experiment with authentic Maine food and get a good look and taste of all of the delicious things Portland has to offer, it’s hard to think of a better place.

 

Tips for making the most of your trip to Portland

Plan for the long walks and changing weather

Chances are you’re going to be doing a lot of travel on foot, and don’t worry, the city is absolutely beautiful and you won’t regret it, but you do need to wear comfortable shoes. Also, carry a light jacket, in case of a sudden drop in temperatures.

Dine like a local

As we already said, one of the main charms of Portland it’s its food, so if you want to try the best of it, try to follow the local’s lead. If you want suggestions, you have Eventide Oyster Co. for the best oysters in all of Maine, Duckfat if you wish to have some good duck-fat fries unique sandwiches, and The Holy Donut for the famous Maine potato donuts.

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