MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Portland

Things to Do in Portland

Portland Maine, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Portland's natural environment through various outdoor activities, from gentle walks to marine encounters.

Hiking & Trekking

Eastern Promenade Trail

An easy, paved 2.1-mile trail along the waterfront, suitable for all fitness levels.

Back Cove Trail

Another easy, paved 3.5-mile loop offering flat terrain and city skyline views.

Fort Williams Park Trails

A network of easy to moderate coastal trails with ocean views, cliff walks, and forest paths in Cape Elizabeth.

Water Sports & Wildlife

  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Rentals at East End Beach; explore Casco Bay.
  • Whale Watching Tours: Seasonal (May-October) tours from Old Port. (GetYourGuide whale tours)
  • Sailing/Boat Tours: Scenic harbor cruises and lobster boat tours from Old Port.
  • Cycling: Eastern Promenade and Back Cove Trail for safe, dedicated cycling.

Adventure Sports

  • Limited adventure sports within Portland.
  • Indoor climbing gyms available.
  • White water rafting or challenging rock climbing needs travel outside Portland.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Mainly focused on marine wildlife.
  • Whale watching tours offer chances for large marine mammals.
  • Common seal sightings in Casco Bay.
  • Birdwatching popular along coast and islands.

Cycling

  • City cycling: Eastern Promenade Trail and Back Cove Trail.
  • Bike lanes on main streets are growing.
  • Bike rentals are available city-wide.
  • Mountain biking: outside city to parks like Bradbury Mountain State Park.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions before heading out, especially for water-based activities or hikes.

Cultural Immersion

Beyond dining, immerse yourself in Portland's food culture and arts through various experiences.

Workshops and Classes

  • Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D): Public workshops, lectures, exhibits.
  • Local Artisan Workshops: Studios and galleries in Arts District may offer workshops.
  • Culinary Classes: Limited public cooking classes focused on Maine cuisine; check listings.
  • Community-Based Tourism Initiatives: Support local businesses, artisans directly.

Cultural Performances & Festivals

Merrill Auditorium

Hosts major concerts, Broadway shows, comedy acts, and Portland Symphony Orchestra.

Portland Stage

Maine's largest professional theater company, offering a season of plays.

State Theatre & Port City Music Hall

Historic venues for live music, from national bands to local artists.

First Friday Art Walk

Galleries and studios in Arts District and Old Port open late, offering free entry and artist receptions.

Maine Folk Arts Festival

A seasonal event showing traditional Maine crafts, music, and cultural heritage.

Portland Summer Fest

July: A multi-day event featuring music, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for calm and revitalization in Portland.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Portland Regency Hotel & Spa: Full-service spa with massage, facials.
  • Other Independent Spas: Various smaller studios offering massage, acupuncture.
  • Natural Hot Springs: None directly in or near Portland; travel to other New England regions for this.
  • Beach & Pool Clubs: East End Beach for water relaxation. Some larger hotels have indoor pools.

Yoga & Meditation

Yoga Studios

Several yoga studios in Portland offer drop-in classes for visitors. Look for studios in the Arts District or West End.

Meditation Retreats

Longer, immersive yoga or meditation retreats are usually found outside the city in more rural or coastal settings.

Mindful Walking

The Eastern Promenade or Back Cove Trail provide peaceful settings for mindful walks and quiet reflection.

Holistic Wellness Approaches

Acupuncture & Energy Work

Various clinics throughout the city offer alternative therapies for well-being.

Fitness Centers

Many hotels have fitness facilities, and independent gyms offer day passes.

Nature Immersion

Spending time in Fort Williams Park or Mackworth Island naturally rejuvenates.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Portland's evenings present options from live music to casual pubs.

Live Music Venues

  • State Theatre: Hosts major touring acts and renowned musicians.
  • Port City Music Hall: Popular venue for diverse music genres.
  • One Longfellow Square: Intimate setting for folk, acoustic, and jazz.
  • Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub: Often features live local music.

Theater & Performing Arts

Portland Stage

Maine's professional regional theater, producing a season of plays.

Merrill Auditorium

Hosts larger theatrical productions, Broadway shows, and comedy acts.

Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine

Offers live theater performances designed for young audiences.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

  • Old Port: Most concentrated area for bars, pubs.
  • Craft breweries have tasting rooms.
  • Guided brewery tours transport between breweries.
  • Self-guide a "brewery hop" in East Bayside.

Nightclubs & Late Night

  • Limited traditional nightclubs.
  • Nightlife centers on bars and pubs with DJs or live music.
  • Especially lively in the Old Port.
  • Check local listings for specific events or comedy shows.

Other Evening Entertainment

  • One Longfellow Square: Intimate venue for acoustic acts.
  • Live comedy shows at various venues.
  • Open mic nights for local talent.
  • Late-night dining options in areas.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional Markets
  • Public Market House: Indoor market with local food vendors.
  • Portland Farmers Market: Seasonal outdoor market for fresh produce.
  • Artisan cheeses and baked goods.
Artisan & Boutique Shopping
  • Independent galleries in Arts District and Old Port.
  • Local artists, jewelers, potters, glass blowers.
  • Find unique, handmade souvenirs.

Souvenir & Ethical Shopping

Look for Maine-made crafts, lobster-themed items, blueberry products, and local coffee. Support independent businesses. Consider a local cookbook for food enthusiasts (The Maine Table).

Activity Planning Summary

Maximizing Your Experience

  • Check local event listings for festivals or unique happenings during your visit.
  • Group activities by neighborhood to minimize travel time.
  • Embrace walking and cycling to fully experience the city's charm.
  • Don't hesitate to ask locals for their favorite hidden spots.

Responsible Tourism

  • Practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in natural areas.
  • Dispose of waste properly and recycle where facilities are available.
  • Support local businesses and artisans.
  • Respect local customs and community spaces.