Planning a trip to Portland, Maine? I’ve visited the city twice – once in May and once in August. I enjoyed it both times and would recommend spending 2 – 3 days there to experience what Portland has to offer. Continue reading to learn about best things to do and where to eat in Portland.
THINGS TO DO
Day 1
Key highlights:
- Walk around Eastern Promenade
- Explore the lighthouses
Start the day by getting coffee or breakfast at Coffee ME Up. There was coffee, smoothies, and a variety of sandwiches to start your day. Then head over to Eastern Promenade to enjoy a nice walk around that area.
Once you’re done, drive and see the lighthouses in Portland. Start at the Bug Light Park lighthouse. Then head to Spring Point Ledge lighthouse. End your tour at the Portland Head Light lighthouse. Each lighthouse is different and unique in their own way, so you can walk around the area and enjoy the day.
Once you’re done, head back to where you’re staying to relax and get ready for dinner.
For dinner, check out The High Roller Lobster Co. They’ve got some classics on the menu, such as a lobster roll or fish & chips, and mac & cheese, as well as some unique items like surf & turf burger and lobster cheese crisp taco.
Day 2
Key highlights:
- Walk around Old Port
- Head to Peaks Island
Get started with coffee or breakfast or brunch on your way to Old Port. Once you’re done, head to the port to catch a ferry to Peaks Island.
Once you’re on Peaks Island, I’d recommend renting a golf cart in advance to easily get around the island. The golf carts are popular so if you don’t book one in advance, you’re most likely not going to get one. A backup option can be to rent a bike and ride around the island.
Once you get back to the port, stop by Coastal Creamery to grab some gelato. Highly recommend the coffee Oreo flavor.
For dinner, grab a bite at Portland Lobster Co. It has a big patio with a variety of seafood options, such as a lobster roll, shrimp, etc.
WHERE TO STAY
We’ve stayed in two different areas when we’ve travelled to Portland. There are many hotels and Airbnbs to choose from.
- Downtown Portland: You’ll be near Old Port, restaurants, and shops so you can easily walk around in that area. It may be noisy depending on if there’s restaurants or bars near your hotel or Airbnb.
- Munjoy Hill neighborhood: This area is a bit further from downtown, but still walkable. You may need to use your car more if you don’t like to walk far, but it’ll be quieter in that area.
I searched on Airbnb and hotels.com to find affordable places to stay depending on what you’re looking for.
OTHER THINGS TO KNOW AS YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP
- If you have more time, here are some other restaurants or spots to check out:
- Restaurants:
- The Shop by Island Creek Oysters (if you enjoy fresh oysters)
- Eventide Oyster Co.
- Gilbert’s Chowder House
- Duckfat
- Terlingua
- Explore:
- More lighthouses: On the Rocks at Two Lights
- Grab a beer at a brewery: Allagash, Shipyard, Rising Tide
- Restaurants:
Hope you enjoy your trip to Portland!
For more itineraries and destination ideas, check out my Travel page.