What to see and do in Portland
The Old Port area
The city’s picturesque Old Port area is lined with 19th-century warehouses and cobblestone roads. On the other hand, Congress Street is more of a cultural hub – filled with independent boutiques, art galleries and theatres. You can trace Maine’s coastal heritage down by the waterfront, where you’ll find fishing wharfs and seafood restaurants.
Whale watching
With over 3,500 miles of coastline, Maine’s waters are home to the world’s largest creatures. Whales often come up for air between March and October, and there’s plenty of places to spot these majestic mammals. Odyssey Whale Watch sets sail from Portland in search for humpbacks and minkes, as well as dolphins, basking sharks and sea turtles.
Portland Head Light
The oldest lighthouse in Maine, Portland Head Light first lit up in 1791. Perched on the rocky coastline of Fort Williams State Park, it’s been safely guiding ships into the Casco Bay for many centuries. This historic site is surrounded by a lush park featuring old fort structures. What’s more, there’s a museum in the original keeper’s quarters. The fresh air coming in from the coast will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Portland’s best hotels
Black Point Inn
This beautiful oceanfront hotel is one of Maine’s original luxury inns, having first opened its doors in 1878. From the moment you walk through the front door to when you’re calling it a night while wrapped in sumptuously soft sheets, every aspect of your stay at the Black Point Inn oozes New England charm. Book one of the Commodore’s Chambers for an ocean view, or enjoy ultimate pampering with a massage in your room.
Portland Regency Hotel & Spa
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Regency is an oasis of tranquility. It has more than seven spa rooms, offering full-body massages, facials, sauna room and a jacuzzi. It’s also a haven for foodies, with the on-site restaurant serving up a large menu of distinctively New England dishes. Their specialities include lobster stew and white crab meat. All ingredients are locally sourced – with the delicious ice cream with origins even closer to home, as it’s made in-house.
Danforth Inn
Since its construction in 1823, The Danforth has been a prohibition safehouse, a boarding school and a bank. The area surrounding it was once a neighbourhood filled with wealthy families and merchants – and this premium vibe is mirrored in the luxe rooms inside the hotel. Snuggle up in front of a built-in fireplace and dig into the pantry to indulge on complimentary pastries and snacks.
Portland’s best places to eat
Bite into Maine
With fantastic views of the ocean and Portland Head Light, Bite into Maine is more than just a food truck. The owners have perfected their signature picnic style grab-and-go menu, using the freshest lobsters, bread and butter. Choose from classic New England style lobster rolls and more exotic options like curry rolls.
Fore Street
Overlooking the historic Old Port, Fore Street welcomes diners into its high-ceilinged warehouse to feast on the best oysters in the city. The chefs man a wood-burning over and turnspit-fire in the large open kitchen. Masters of seafood, watch as they crack open dozens of fresh local oysters and pick locally farmed herbs and vegetables from in-house humidor.
Arabica Coffee
The floor-to-ceiling windows and exposed brick walls of Arabica Coffee give this cosycafé a unique edge. Arabica is stylishly decorated with local art and trailing house plants, and there’s plenty of dark-wood tables to sit at. Over 24 years, they’ve nailed their speciality lattes, serving up delicious blends which are beautifully presented.
