17+ Best Things To Do In Portland, Maine

Last updated August 23, 2025

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Portland is a super cool southern Maine city that absolutely deserves a spot on everybody’s Maine travel plans because there are so many fantastic activities to enjoy here.

If you’re passionate about craft beers, food, and the delightful scent of the sea, you should definitely visit Portland, Maine.

And if you intend to make the most of your trip to this Maine's largest city, you must venture beyond the popular tourist routes and discover all of Portland's top attractions.

Here are 17+ top things to explore in Portland!

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1. Embark on a Train Ride

The Maine Gauge Railroad is officially a museum but it primarily functions as a large ticket booth and gift shop featuring a handful of small signs and exhibits regarding railroad history.

The true gem of this railroad is the journey of 35 minutes on a vintage-style, fun train that puffs along the lovely Eastern Promenade.

The railroad has maintained its historic trains for public use on a gauge railway of two feet stretching one and a half miles.

Highly skilled train operators and conductors are always present here to share with visitors all the fascinating details and historical information about these amazing trains.

If you want enjoyable activities for kids in Portland, board a train here and select from their historically accurate, fully restored open-air or 1st-class cars.

2. Visit The Historic Portland Observatory

Any list highlighting the top activities in Portland would be incomplete without including this Portland Observatory.

This distinctive site rises seven stories high and remains the sole signal maritime tower still in existence in the United States.

It was originally constructed by Captain Moody Lemuel in 1807 on Munjoy Hill to inform ship owners when their cherished vessels were returning home.

Since that time, it has been converted into an outstanding museum where visitors can take guided tours of the distinctive, octagonal building.

Every level features numerous intriguing exhibits that outline Portland's history, the maritime sector, and the building's evolution.

When you get here, make sure you climb to the iconic lantern right at the tower’s top before you leave so you can admire expansive views of Portland.

In fact, it’s more awesome than it seems.

3. Enjoy Time at Rocking Horse Stables

A fantastic activity in Portland is checking out Rockin’ Horse.

As its title implies, it’s entirely equine-focused.

You can embark on horseback rides here or relax in a carriage that is horse-drawn while observing the scenery glide by.

It's enjoyable for everyone and don’t delay visiting this venue in winter.

Although summer offers enjoyable views of blooming flowers and green fields, winter introduces a variety of winter sports and activities.

A leading choice here is a ride on a sleigh through the white snow.

In case you are concerned you might get chilly, Rockin’ Horse offers a cozy, thick blanket to snuggle under, and you'll receive hot chocolate after your ride.

4. Check Out Eastern Cemetery

I can’t create an itinerary of Portland, Maine’s top activities without mentioning the historical Eastern Cemetery.

Established in 1668, it serves as the last resting spot for over 4000 of the most prominent citizens of Portland.

It also provides interesting insights on the town’s socio-economic historical divisions, as parts of this cemetery are separated according to an individual's wealth in the community.

You can certainly discover this location independently, and you can likewise experience it through guided tours with the Spirits Alive which operate from June to October.

This graveyard is just a short distance from the DuckFat Friteshack and Maine’s Jewish Museum.

At Duck Fat, you can grab some of this area’s best fries.

Absolutely, you can seamlessly incorporate all 3 of these activities into your weekend itinerary in Portland.

5. Visit Tate House Museum

This is another historic house that is included in my list of top activities in Portland.

I experience cozy, comforting feelings whenever I enter a historic house that is carefully renovated to its original splendor.

Tate House also follows that trend as it was George Tate’s previous Colonial-period home, who is honored as the final British 'mast agent' in the state.

Mast agents are people who obtained New England’s White Pine specifically for Britain to aid in the ongoing construction of their navy.

You will discover all of this and even more at this museum, the sole private home from the old pre-revolutionary time that is accessible to the general public.

Feel free to enter and explore how people resided in America in the 18th century.

Also, take engaging guided tours of the house and explore details about George Tate, this residence, Colonial New England's life, and the historic mast trade.

6. Wander Around Old Port Region

This place is delightful with its cobbled lanes, fishing docks, and converted warehouses by the water that are currently shops, eateries, and gift stores.

In fact, if you're organizing your first weekend itinerary in Portland, this is undoubtedly among the top activities to do.

First of all, you can go to a festival here.

Many individuals usually gather in the region for the June OldPort Festival and the December Merry Madness.

Also, there are numerous stylish shops located nearby, such as Rough and Tumble (offering more artisanal handbags), Sea Bags (which creates fashionable bags from used sailboat sails), and Zane (providing high-end clothing), to mention only a handful.

You can even acquire various items for the home kitchen here.

Skordo and Salt Cellar offer the finest fresh spices, rubs, and herbs for your essential cooking requirements.

There are additionally numerous excellent dining spots in this vicinity.

If you're feeling hungry after your exploration, stop by Duck Fat. It is very popular due to its fantastic fries and tasty burgers.

Also, check out Central Provisions for a small plate; their burger is reportedly good, or get a Highroller Lobster’s lobster roll.

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7. Visit Central Provisions for a Tasty Meal

Situated in the lively Old Port district, Central Provisions remains a must-visit in Portland for those who enjoy delightful brick walls with unique dining spots that offer an excellent selection of tasty small dishes.

It’s a perfect location to visit with a big team of friends as you can effortlessly divide their variety of dishes among all of you.

Their menu is ever-changing and seasonal, so you will always find a fresh variety of inventive meals with strong tastes and excellent textures.

One of the highlights here is their fried grains polenta and fried cauliflower.

Make sure to also leave space for their invigorating lime tart after your meal.

Definitely, you won't regret including this spot in your Portland plans.

8. Explore Portland's Museum of Art

This museum is an incredible art institution located in Portland (approximately a walk of 20 minutes from the area of Old Port) that was initially established in 1882.

Here, you'll discover over 18,000 unique pieces of art on display, along with various special temporary exhibitions on their ground floor.

These include artworks crafted by renowned figures in the world of art such as Monet, Degas, Andy Warhol, Renoir, Picasso, and Claude Monet.

There are additionally many sculptures, drawings, video art exhibits, and ceramics showcased here as well.

Although certain artworks here are crafted by renowned European and American artists, there’s certainly a focus on highlighting pieces created by Maine local artists.

Consider works by Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, Andrew Wyeth, and Louise Nevelson.

Therefore, if you have an appreciation for art, go ahead and check out all three levels of this iconic building, along with the Federal-style 1801 Mc Lellan House Galleries located at the rear.

9. Eat Lobsters

You can't depart Maine without including “eat lobster” in your top activities to experience in Portland.

Unless you have an allergy or simply can’t stand lobster.

Eating lobster remains an essential aspect of any visit to Maine.

Portland boasts numerous indulgent lobster spots where you're free to request a Maine classic lobster roll or a complete steamed lobster.

If you’re uncertain about what Maine’s lobster roll is, it typically features a New England center-cut hotdog roll that’s buttered and toasted.

It's filled with an extra fresh lobster amount – lobster meat that’s occasionally accompanied by melted butter and gently mixed with mayo as well.

10. Embark on Craft Beer Tours

Another enjoyable activity to experience in Portland is visiting the thirty various breweries of craft beer in this city.

Though you might not be able to visit them all, you should definitely explore two or one while you're in Portland.

You should visit the UrbanFarm Fermentory because, aside from beer, they offer an excellent variety of homemade, non-alcoholic Jun & Kombucha.

You'll also enjoy the atmosphere here because their staff are very attentive, and there's an excellent variety of drinks and food options on their menu.

Also, their decor is playful and quirky, and they offer an outdoor spacious seating area to relax and enjoy live music.

It’s a really laid-back spot to unwind and enjoy a drink.

And there are additional craft beer local breweries that you may want to explore.

11. Eat Many DuckFat Fries

DuckFat Fries adhere to standards as they come crispy, hot, and well-prepared for enjoyment with your selection of 2 dipping sauces along with the perfect salt amount.

You should head over to Duck Fat Friteshack and get as many fries as you can handle, as they're hand-cut, crafted with the finest Maine potatoes available, and cooked in duck fat (that’s why it’s called that).

You'll also appreciate that Duckfat Friteshack shares the dining space with the lovely Oxbow Blending & Bottling.

Absolutely, you can order as many fries as you like, since you clearly require something to absorb all the alcohol you are about to consume.

Simply approach their window and request an enormous portion of fries (which can certainly serve as a meal by themselves).

You may enhance your meal with doughnut holes, poutine, and milkshakes, and then eagerly anticipate your beeper going off, signaling that your order is now ready.

12. Visit Victoria Mansion

In case you appreciate historic homes so much like me, then the stunning Victoria Mansion remains undoubtedly one of Portland Maine’s top attractions for you.

From the exterior, there are beautiful verandas and balconies to appreciate.

Then, when you explore inside, you'll find a magnificent Italian-style 1860s palace featuring a beautifully decorated interior with period furniture, intricate frescoes, impressive carpets, gilded walls, stained glass ceilings, luxurious drapes, and much more.

The decoration here mirrors the owner's distinctive background, as he was reportedly a prominent figure in the New Orleans hotel industry.

He aimed for the glass-stained windows and decor here to honor Maine State and the deep south’s greatness.

Ultimately, this intricate summer home was purchased from Ruggles Morse and converted into the stunning museum you see today.

Ensure you incorporate this incredible attraction into your weekend plans in Portland and discover this remarkable location’s intriguing history from a highly knowledgeable guide.

Additionally, watch for other ultra-modern amenities here such as central heating and hot and cold water.

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13. Sail on Casco Bay

Any list highlighting the top activities in Portland would be incomplete without mentioning the captivating, eternally lovely Casco Bay.

It lies directly by Portland banks and is most appreciated from the water.

Although numerous cruise companies operate in Casco Bay, Sea Tours remains one of the absolute favorites.

Their guides are incredibly knowledgeable and you have the option for a fun sea tour, a land tour inside a charming vintage trolley, or a mix of both.

In the Harbor Lights & Sights Cruise tour, you can view all the Portland Harbor’s charming lighthouses and the captivating Diamond Pass water way as well.

Also, insightful expert commentary is included while you admire the renowned Portland HeadLight in Maine, making it an ideal enhancement to any itinerary in Portland.

Note that it can be very cold on the waters, so make sure to wear a thick jacket no matter when you go.

14. Join a Food Walking Tour of Old Port

Devote a weekend to Portland and you'll quickly discover that indulging in delightful food is among the top activities in this city.

The culinary landscape in Portland is unmatched.

So, make sure to bring lots of elastic waistband pants because, believe me, you’re going to want them.

You'll definitely consume your weight in French fries, cookies, lobster rolls, and donuts.

However, if you’re unfamiliar with this city, it may be somewhat challenging to find dining options and navigate without getting completely disoriented, particularly if you’re just visiting Portland for a brief weekend.

And that's where the Old Port CulinaryWalking Tour proves to be extremely useful.

In this 3-hour guided food tour in the area of Old Port, you’ll walk along charming cobblestone paths and enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas, all while indulging in the finest cuisine the city provides.

Prepare to enjoy genuine, Maine-inspired cuisine while exploring the captivating history of the charming port city.

During your trip, you'll also have the chance to meet local culinary legends, learn about their beginnings, and even taste some Maine local craft beer in case you are of legal drinking age.

15. Discover the Many Lighthouses in Portland

There are more than five distinct lighthouses within a brief drive from Portland and you should definitely try to visit all of them.

It is an amazing experience and an incredible opportunity to discover the hidden treasures in and near Portland.

Even, joining a guided tour will provide all the essential information you require to explore these stunning lighthouses during your Portland, Maine’s weekend.

One of the lighthouses is Bug Light, which is small and charming, and has a related museum that you will be able to explore in the busy season.

There is also the Spring Point LedgeLight.

To reach this lighthouse, you need to pass through a community campus. However, it's certainly worth checking out and is very near the bug light.

Remember to exercise caution while walking to this lighthouse, as there are enormous gaps on the stone.

It's certainly not suitable for those with restricted movement or young kids.

Furthermore, avoid walking out here during darkness or inclement weather.

16. Check Out Holy Donut

Inhaling Holy Donut’s donut is, without a doubt, among the top experiences in Portland.

I was organizing a Portland weekend and everyone insisted that I couldn’t leave the city without sampling at least 1 Holy Donut donut.

And wow! I was completely sold and eagerly look forward to organizing my next visit to Portland to indulge in more of the beautiful donuts.

Although I haven't sampled all of their flavors, I’ll certainly recommend their sea salt chocolate donut and the maple one, as both are tasty, moist, not overly sweet, and not greasy at all.

They are quite large and their lattes are great as well, and if you’d like to pair your donut together with a tasty coffee, feel free to do that.

Just so you know, Holy Donut has several sites in Portland (Park Avenue, Scarborough, and Exchange Street), so don’t hesitate to check it out before exploring the numerous Portland lighthouses.

17. Have Fun in Palace Playland

This is a seasonal attraction in Portland that definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary if you want a day packed with thrills.

Interestingly, Palace Playland has been around for more than 120 years but its rides aren't particularly old, as they continually refresh and enhance them.

The Playland is Maine's sole amusement park by the sea, featuring numerous rides.

If you enjoy rollercoasters, give their Sea Viper a go.

This place also features carousels, small pools, a fun Ferris wheel, and bumper cars.

Without a doubt, Palace Playland has the finest of all things, and there are even numerous food choices nearby!

18. Stroll Along Eastern Promenade

Even if you're just intending to spend your weekend inside Portland, you can't visit this stunning state without venturing into the beautiful outdoors.

One of the best aspects of any Maine visit is the opportunity to step outside and restore your bond with nature.

Even though Portland is unquestionably a city, it still boasts numerous amazing green areas where you're free to play by the coast, relax on the beautiful beach, and take in stunning views of countless lighthouses.

You’ll be thrilled to discover that the lovely Eastern Promenade stands as one of these locations.

It’s a well-known place, so you'll certainly be sharing the trail with many others, including cyclists and dog walkers.

You can begin at FortAllen Park where parking is free. Then, stroll toward the lively Old Port district in Portland.

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