Situated in the heart of this coastal state, Portland, Maine stands as its most populous area, blending traditional coastal allure with a unique twist.
Unlike the upscale vibes of Cape Cod and the Hamptons, Portland sets itself apart with a lively, eclectic culinary scene and a strong focus on the arts, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a trendy experience without breaking the bank.
If you’re eager to craft the ultimate Portland adventure, read on!
Travel Tips for Portland, Maine
Where We Stayed
Portland boasts a range of historic lodging options, from charming 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts like the Chadwick to waterfront accommodations at Canopy by Hilton.
For our stay, we selected a historic Airbnb previously owned by a confectioner, Benjamin Rolfe Jr. This 1848 Greek Revival home featured two beautifully arranged bedrooms, a cozy reading nook filled with games, and modern amenities in the kitchen and bathroom. With its fascinating books and architecture, we could have easily spent our entire visit just exploring this Airbnb!
Must-Try Restaurants & Bars
It’s no wonder Bon Appetit hailed Portland as “America’s Foodiest Small Town.” In just a few hours, you’ll uncover the city’s culinary treasures. Be sure to visit at least one of these spots:
Taco Escobarr
As a taco enthusiast from Boston, I know finding good Mexican cuisine in the Northeast can be challenging. Taco Escobarr changes that with its freshly made chips and salsa alongside a range of delicious tacos—we ended up dining here twice! My tip? Don’t miss the margaritas; they’re absolutely worth it.
Green Elephant
One of the best Thai restaurants I’ve ever experienced, Green Elephant is entirely vegetarian, making it a perfect spot for a healthy meal after indulging in fried donuts and tacos. From delectable Pad Thai to Tofu Tikka Masala, everything on the menu is a winner.
Lincolns
No trip to Portland is complete without visiting this hidden speakeasy. If you manage to get in, every drink costs a Lincoln ($5). The ambiance is charming, with soft lighting and a cozy bar vibe. Remember to bring cash, as Lincolns operates on a cash-only basis. You’ll find it at 36 Market Street, but I’ll keep the entrance secret!
Boutiques, Books & Bakeries
After indulging in Portland’s fantastic food scene, take time to explore the beautiful shops in downtown Portland. For book lovers, Longfellows and Print offer an eclectic mix of literature and souvenirs.
Our favorite boutiques included Blanche & Mimi for unique vintage finds, Pinecone + Chickadee for quirky gifts, and Portland Trading Co. for upscale fashion. Thrift enthusiasts should check out Portland Flea for All, Little Ghost Vintage, and Material Objects for stylish secondhand treasures.
And after all that shopping, don’t miss Holy Donuts, which might just serve the best donuts I’ve ever tasted. Made with potatoes (yes, potatoes), these donuts come in flavors like pomegranate, lemon, and toasted coconut. Trust me, these vegan treats are lighter and fluffier than any Dunkin’ offering.
Best Blueberry Experiences
You can’t visit Maine without savoring its renowned blueberries. Portland is a haven for blueberry aficionados. Be sure to try these delicious blueberry treats:
- Two Fat Cats Bakery: Wild Maine Blueberry Pie
- Holy Donut: Maine Blueberry Donut
- Standard Baking Co.: Blueberry Oatmeal Scone
- Allagash Brewing Company: Seasonal Wheat Ale with Fresh Maine Wild Blueberries
Lighthouse Adventures Along the Coast of Maine
After enjoying shopping and dining, Portland offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.
During my visit, we dedicated a day to lighthouse hopping, exploring three of the five local lighthouses. We started at Portland Head Light, enjoying a brunch picnic on the grassy overlook before touring the lighthouse and nearby ruins. Known as one of America’s most photographed lighthouses, its stunning backdrop is no surprise. You can explore the museum inside or head straight to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse.
Spring Point Ledge was my favorite, largely due to the fun rock hopping to reach it. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the rocks can be uneven and challenging.
We wrapped up our day at Bug Light, the most elegant of the trio. Free parking is available near all the lighthouses.
