Portland, Maine, USA coastal townscape on Portland Harbor.

A traveler's guide to Portland, Maine

Discover the charm of Maine, from quaint coastal towns to scenic inland adventures. This BBB guide highlights top things to do, downtowns to explore, and trusted travel tips to ensure an enjoyable trip.

Back to BBB Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT Travel Guide page

Why visit?

Portland, Maine is a charming coastal city with cobblestone streets, fresh seafood, and scenic lighthouses.

Downtown & main streets

View of Portland, Maine Old Port
Old Port (Commercial & Exchange Streets)

Stroll cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, shops, and seafood shacks.

Portland is a port city and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Maine and the seat of Cumberland County.
Congress Street Arts District

Explore the Portland Museum of Art, theaters, live music, and local galleries.

Portland is a port city and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Maine and the seat of Cumberland County.
Monument Square

Visit the central hub featuring farmers’ markets, food trucks, and seasonal events.

Top things to do

Portland Head Lighthouse, Maine, USA at sunset
Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park
Boats in Casco Bay, Portland during day of summer
Take a ferry to the Casco Bay Islands
Variety of beers in a pub.
Sample beer at Allagash Brewing

        

Travel tips

Bring a jacket — it’s breezy near the water.
Rent a car for nearby lighthouses and coastal drives.
Check ferry schedules if visiting the islands.